It starts up ok but smokes heavily and then after a minute or two the smoke increases and it cuts out, it seems as if it's burning a lot of oil.

is there a quick easy fix?

Tom, August 2008

They cost Mountfield £20, and yes they do cost around £9 to make in the generic Chinese factory that sell them to Mountfield- or GGP if you want to be exact.

pleasant, August 2008

If it's not overfilled, then I'm afraid you're a victim of (lack of) Chinese quality control. They CAN be repaired, but only if you do the job yourself - and you can find a dealer willing to order tha parts from China. Most of them will tell you it's not worth the time. Previous answer was almost correct - they cost £9 each!

A replacement Tecumseh or Briggs is the best way forward. Will cost almost as much as the mower, but you will get a better mower than the one you originally bought.

phil_saunders@bigfoot.com

Phil Saunders, August 2008

Have you checked the oil level on the dipstick?

Could be something as simple as it being overfilled.

Ifit's not that, then yes it could be serious and as these Chinese Mountfield engines only cost £20 to Mountfield to make they aint designed to be repaired- tolerance or economical wise.

pleasant, August 2008

The volume of smoke you are getting would point to a serious problem with the engine.
Possibly piston ring or cylinder bore wear or damage.
The only other thing to check is that you are using the correct grade of oil. If the engine is partly worn and the oil is too thin then it may cause smoke. If this is the case then all you should have to do is change the oil. But be prepared for the worst.

Robin S, August 2008