Troubleshooting - MTD 401 Series Operator's Manual

SECTION 7: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
Trouble Possible Cause(s)
Engine fails to Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.
start
Throttle control lever not in correct starting
position (if so equipped).
Blocked fuel line.
Dirty aircleaner.
Choke not in ON position.
Spark plug wire disconnected.
Faulty spark plug.
Engine flooded.
Engine runs Unit running on CHOKE.
erratic
Spark plug wire loose.
Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
Vent in gas cap plugged.
Water or dirt in fuel system.
Dirty air cleaner.
Carburetor out of adjustment.
Engine overheats Engine oil level low.
Dirty air cleaner.
Air flow restricted.
Carburetor not adjusted properly.
Tines do not Foreign object lodged in tines.
engage
Tine clevis pin(s) missing.
Pulley and idler not in correct
adjustment.
Not shifting properly.
Control cable not adjusted properly.
Belt worn and/or stretched.
Wheels do not Clevis pin missing.
engage
Tiller is not being shifted properly.
Control cable not adjusted properly.
Belt worn and/or stretched.
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments above, contact your local authorized service dealer.
Corrective Action
Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline. Fuel will not last over thirty
days unless a fuel stabilizer is used.
Move throttle lever to start position.
Clean fuel line.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Move choke to ON position.
Connect wire to spark plug.
Clean, adjust gap or replace.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Move choke lever to OFF position.
Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline. Fuel will not
last over thirty days unless a fuel stabilizer is used.
Clear vent.
Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Fill crankcase with proper oil.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Adjust carburetor as instructed in separate engine manual.
Dislodge foreign object.
Replace tine clevis pin(s).
Take unit to authorized service dealer.
Refer to controls section of operator's manual for proper
shifting procedures.
Adjust control cable (see assembly instructions).
Replace belt.
Replace clevis pin.
Refer to controls section of operator's manual for proper
shifting procedures.
Adjust control cable (see assembly instructions).
Replace belt.
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