Fixing your Lauson lawn and garden equipment engine when it runs rough
If your engine cuts out, smokes, idles poorly, vibrates or runs erratically, it could need a good tune-up to replace the spark plug, oil and air filter. Or the problem could be with the lawn mower's fuel system. Rebuild or replace the carburetor if the engine isn't getting a good supply of fuel.
If the engine misfires, backfires, sputters or jerks the starter rope out of your hand when you try to start it, the flywheel key could be broken. A broken flywheel key disrupts the ignition timing because the magnets aren't passing the ignition coil in synchronization with piston movement. Replace the flywheel key if it's damaged or broken.
Troubleshooting your Lauson lawn and garden equipment engine when it won't stay running
Fuel system problems often cause the engine to stall, so you'll need to rebuild or replace the carburetor if it won't stay running. Our fuel, ignition and compression problems video provides additional tips for troubleshooting fuel system problems.
Some engines stall if the gas cap vent gets clogged. Check your mower's gas cap and clear the vent if it has one. Tuning up the mower engine may also help keep the engine running as you mow the grass.