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JD STX38 Won't Start...Odd

10 years ago

Hello all,
Have a old STX38 that for the first time in it's life sat idle for 2 years. It was prepared (gas out, etc) and I went to start it today. Good news was after checking everything out, charging the battery and adding gas, it started after about a dozen cranks. Let it run for about 10 minutes to warm up and all seemed fine.

Bad news is when I hit the PTO lever to get the blades moving to mow, it died. Right now it cranks like crazy but it's not starting; not even trying to fire up. I'll check for spark now but hoping someone may have seen this before. I think the only fuse / breaker is for the starter so don't believe that would be it. Like I said, cranks fine but does not fire. All wires I can see are 'attached' but I don't have a wiring diagram to try and trace anything.
Any suggestions appreciated.
Bob

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Comment (1)

bill_kapaun
10 years ago
Could the engine have flooded?
Sometimes after sitting for an extended period, the fuel line may deteriorate and a small "chunk" could work its way into the carb needle & seat and prevent it from closing.

DO check for spark.
IF none, make sure the seat switch connector is fully plugged in. You might also try manually moving the seat switch to see if it's hanging up or feels "crunchy" inside.

I don't have a schematic, so this is off the top of my head.
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