Re-Starting Of A New Toro Walk-Behind Mower: Suggestions ?

[Robert11]

Hello:

Recently bought a brand new Toro Walk-Behind Recycler, Model 20005 for my son. He is not in my area, so I can't readily get down there to play with it.

When we first got it home, it started and ran just perfectly.

Yesterday, he was able to start it fine, surprisingly, even though he forgot to use the priming bulb (he's not very mechanical)

But after running about 10 minutes, he released the handle bar, and the engine stopped, as it is apparently designed to do.

He couldn't get it going again. He tried for quite a while, but never primed the engine with the bulb. (there is gas in tank)

Then, after a phone call to me, he did use the primer a few times, but it still wouldn't start.

I realize that there are a zillion variables involved, but would like to ask:

a. has this brand of Toro proved reliable ? Any recalls ?

b. Are you supposed to use the priming bulb after the engine has warmed up for any re-starts ?

c. Any thoughts, ideas, or suggestions, as to why it possibly would not get going again, or what to try, would be most appreciated.

Thanks, Bob

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Follow-Up Postings:

[Porky]

This works for me. When in doubt, pull the spark plug. If it's wet, you've pumped in too much fuel. Spin it over a few times with the plug out and the throttle open to blow some dry air thru it. Best to leave it sit for a spell like overnight. If it's not wet, take a real good look, make sure it's not wet. Put the plug back in carefully with fingers, so you don't cross-thread it. Tighten it just snug with a wrench, you don't have to torque it to 100 lbs. Now make sure the fuel tank is full. One new mower I had wouldn't prime on a 1/2 tank. Give the primer bulb 5 good squirts. Pull the cord gently to bring the piston up on compression. Then give it a super strong pull with the throttle open. Repeat 2 times, then if it doesn't start, go get a beer out of the fridge. Try again later.

JohnK

[SJF]

From personal experience, I would say that the commonest reason for failure to restart is failing to pull the engine-kill bar back to operating position. Sure makes you feel dumb when you discover that after you've cleaned the plug, used starter fluid and pulled the starter a dozen times.

SJF