We have an 11 yr. old MTD Tiller model 340 with a 5HP Briggs and Stratton motor. Recently there was a flood and the motor was nearly completely covered with the muddy water for nearly 36 hours, then we had sub freezing temps. We emptied the gas tank, have changed the oil 3 times (still a little muddy mirky), and changed the spark plug, yet it will not stay running. We have used carburetor cleaner and it will run as long as the cleaner lasts, then it dies. I really like this tiller and don't want to buy a new one. Any ideas as to what to do. Don't want to spend a lot of money to fix it, yet don't want to spend money for a new one.

D Caston, April 2008

hi there. the fact that it runs for a while proves there are no broken parts in the engine or electrical (spark plug). You likely have water or dirt in your carburator. It should be completely dissassembled and blown with compressed air. Then it will run like a top.

Steve, August 2008