I have a new lawn mower that i have used once, and it worked perfectly, However.

Question

However, while starting to use it a second time, it will not start. It will run for a second or two after i have pushed the prime button two or three times, but then it dies again! I have loosened the gas cap, for vapor lock, (not the problem) i have also cleaned the foam air filter, (didn't help) and i am now at a loss at what to do? I know next to nothing about engines and the like, so i could use an assist. By the way, it is a push mower. Whoever has the suggestion that gets it running, gets the points!

Answer 1

Duke try getting a aerosol can of starting fluid, Take spark-plug out and give it a shot, replace plug and try to start.  You said it was a new mower make sure it has gas and oil.

Good Luck

Answer 2

This sure sounds like a fuel problem, if it was not used for a period of time, I would say the carburetor had a stuck float valve. Try pumping the primer bulb many more times until it starts to get firmer and then try starting the mower.  Maybe this will help.  

Answer 3

Sounds like to me you might have a tiny hole or slit in your primer button. This will cause your mower to stop running even after it starts because it's  actually getting too much air. The mixture is not right. It may be hard to see, but take a look. Also check to see if your spark plug is gaped correctly and not fouled.

  Another thing that may cause this is a diaphram not working correctly, for instance it might have a pinhole in it or clogged with tiny particles of crud or dirt that will not allow the gas to flow freely to the carburator. Check your fuel filter too if it has one. (if it doesn't have on, consider installing one to help with premature wear to your rings and valves) It doesn't take much for them to get clogged. Priming will get enough gas to start, but it will quickly dry up and cause it to quit because of the impeaded flow.

Old gasoline will also cause them to not run right or not run at all.

Answer 4

try new spark plug before spending any money.

Answer 5

When you cleaned the pre-cleaner foam on your filter, did you soak in it oil?  I have to soak mine in oil then ring out the excess,then put back on the paper filter. Good luck!