I can't get my suffolk punch 14s lawn mower to start this year. I had it serviced last year and it was fine. I have checked and cleaned the spark plug but still will not start when I pull the string. My husband used to do all the garden but I am now a widow and am at greater loss than I expected. Please help me

Denise, February 2008

We have a Suffolk punch approx. 28yrs old. When we pulled the recoil to start it, it ceased up. We finally got it to go, but not for very long. The sparkplug is new, petrol is clean, and cannot figure out what is the problem.
Any help would be much appreciated

Glenis Lloyd, April 2017

Check spark to see actual spark when recoil starter is pulled.No spark then ignition system needs to be cleaned/module replaced.
If After pulling recoil,check if plug is wet-if not it is a fuel problem.
Presume you have pulled the petrol tap to 'ON'.

D Spicer, August 2009

how to start ,turn on the petrol,using the tickler pin on the top of the carburetter hold down till you see petrol come out the rear float hole open the choke flap about 45 degrees, now open the throttle a little bit (enough for the tick over screw to move just away from the carburetter body, Lift the kill switch off the spark plug end NOW PULL THE HANDLE WILL NOW START this has served me for 20 + years as engine warms knock off the choke.

wirecutterman, February 2008

It could be the fuel... if you left any petrol in the fuel tank/carb over winter. Fuel lasts only a short time before it starts to go stale (as little as 30days!) and can block the carburettor internals a process known as “gumming up” when a film of evaporated fuel residue is left inside the carburettor. You could try fresh fuel after draining the carburettor. As a foot note, Take care when filling the fuel tank and use a plastic “jerry” can, as a metal container can be a fire risk due to static electricity and a spark near fuel vapour can be deadly, a point that is often overlooked.

Cache1, February 2008