I can get it to start but have to continue to "pump" gas through the prime bulb. It runs very rough and chokes on the smallest amount of grass. Ive replaced the spark plug, changed the oil and drained the gas tank and replaced it with fresh gas. When the engine is warm it doesn't improve. Its a simple self propelled mower made by Fridgedare.

Anna Beth, May 2008

Difficult to say without more engine details, but you are describing classic symptoms of fuel starvation.

If the carburettor has a float chamber, drain it. It is likely to contain a small amount of water that has condensed in the tank, and 'sunk' through the gas (it's heavier than gas), and ended up in the carb, where it will block the jet.

phil_saunders@bigfoot.com

Phil Saunders, May 2008