My husband and I purchased a Poulan Pro riding mower, product #960220029, model PP11G30. We used it once to cut the grass and then parked it. When we went a second time to use it it would crank like it wanted to start, but wouldn't. Knowing nothing about lawn mowers we purchased a new battery. Once installed it continues to do the same thing. We can smell the gas when we try to start it, but it won't kick over. It sounds like it wants to. Can you help us out? We can't afford to put it in a shop so our choices are to try to fix it ourselves or let it sit parked.
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Your starter solenoid may need replacing. Be sure to check all wires, and make sure battery cables are secure. Make sure all gears are in the right position when trying to start!
Am not sure about the Poulin brand. I had a chainsaw by that brand and it did not last the season before bugging out.
Small engine repairpersons are generally pretty affordable, ifthey can be found. Or sell it online for parts.
I'm assuming you purchased this new - used it once and then...
How long did it sit before you tried to use it again?
If it was for several weeks/months and you left gas in the tank then you probably just have sludge in the gas and it has clogged up your gas jets/carburetor.
Some people think they need to go to a lawn mower store/shop to buy things for their mowers (and sometimes you do need to) but for simple things I usually try an auto parts store or Ace or True Value Hardware stores first.
Theses stores usually have people who are more familiar with everyday problems and do not usually try to sell you something you may not need right then.
Maybe talk to someone at one of the stores about your problem and maybe try using some carburetor cleaner or starting fluid to see if this will clear it up. They may have other suggestions about your fuel problem.
Hopefully you will soon have a nice purring engine and be able to ride around in the sunshine - be sure to take turns!
Stay Safe....
I have listed some sites to help you with caring for your mower - several sites because sometimes one site explains things to do more clearly than another.
www.repairclinic.com/
www.hunker.com/
www.doityourself.com/
First off when you park any lawnmower you should empty the gas tank of any remaining gas in the tank. The mower sounds brand new and you have already replaced the battery. Normally there is a warranty on the item and you should check this out first before trying to replace the spark plugs. alternator, or even the starter on the unit. it does not sound like any of these items are bad What it sound like is that your fuel filter or pump are not working correctly if you are smelling gas.
It ended up needing a new spark plug. Thank you for your help.
Thanks for letting us know your problem was solved and at not too much trouble or expense - that is always good to know.
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