I have a tecumseh model LEV100, 3.8 hp. To get the mower started I have to set the throttle to choke and push the prime bulb 20 to 30 times. Once the engine starts, I have to press the primer bulb repetitively to keep it going. In the past I could finally quit pressing the primer bulb and it would run.

Today, I haven't been able to keep it running without pressing the primer bulb. I haven't seen any leaks around the primer bulb. Any clue about the source of my problem?

when you push the primer bulb, you get gas going, ready to ignite. So it sounds like a fuel line is plugged, or someting got in the carb, and is blocking gas.

My guess is you have a bowl type carb on the tecumseh,the nut that you unscrew underneath the bowl to remove the bowl is actually a nut and a jet, look at the nut and you will see a tiny pin hole in it, that is where it draws gas through after priming, make sure its not stopped up,they tend to corrode over two or three years,and will shut the mighty tecumseh down in an heart beat.







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I took the bowl off yesterday and I found carbon deposits around the top of the nut. I didn't see any corrosion. There is something that looks like a tiny ball bearing in the center of the nut head. Is this a sort of one way valve? How do I go about cleaning this nut? Soak it in carberator cleaner?

Soaking it would help,should be a pin hole on side of nut, with hole down through middle of nut,really small.

There wasn't any blockages in the fuel line. I've checked the pinholes in the bolt and they do not appear to have any blockages. Any other suggestions?

Did you run some carb cleaner, or a wire through em? If so, a rebuild wouldn't hurt. Make sure the carbs good and tight on the engine as well.

When I ran a needle through them, I didn't see any deposits on the needle.

Still say its gotta be a blockage in the carb, the tight holes can be hard to clean out good.

I've ordered a rebuild kit for the carburetor. This is my first attempt at small engine repair, so wish me luck. I'll need it!