What might be the problem for a tecumseh engine that will not fire, or is blowing oil from the dipstick tube?

Robert, June 2005

blow back on carb.will not start

ed, April 2013

4.5 Tecumse model LV148EA from my Yard Machines mower. How do I set the timing with the two marks on the timing gear and crank gear - is this done at TDC ? thanks

Duncan, July 2010

I'm working on a Tecumseh 4.5 right now. It has no compression. I pulled the head and the valves are not moving as you crank the engine. I suspect a cracked timing gear.

Lou Johnson, April 2010

need to rebuild carberator 4.5 tecumseh

james p wilson, February 2007

Providing you have checked the obvious, fresh fuel in tank!
Remove plug hold against an earth. Check for spark by pulling starter.
You have no spark?= faulty plug or coil assembly or cut-out circuit not open.
You have spark?= fuel problem or low compression (requiring further tests):-
refit working spark plug. Next check air filter and remove it. Clean foam in petrol and dry it, blow out on airline. Soak filter in wd40 and squeeze excess out. Or alternatively replace filter later on.
With air filter removed spray "easy start" in intake. Attempt to start it. If it fires then carb is probably blocked.
Remove carb, completely strip, clean and blow out on airline. Refit with fresh gasket.
Allow carb to fill with fresh fuel. Prime carb and start!

Tom The MotaMenda, April 2006

Is there spark? Oil could be as simple as a bad o-ring or as complicated as back pressure. Try cheching your air filter and seeing how dirty it is. then pull your spark plug and see if it is covered in oil.

cholbach, June 2005