My IZY 18 inch lawnmower now refuses to start. Everything was going well until I stopped for a break. While the mower was standing I could smell petrol, not had this before. Couldn't see any leaks but found that air filter was soaked in petrol and when I pulled starter cord petrol splattered out of exhaust pipe. I have fitted a new spark plug but no improvement. Any suggestions, please.

Jim R, September 2009

Aways tip the machine spark upwards replace air filter

Freddy Harmer, October 2009

Thanks John. It worked!

Jim R, September 2009

Thanks John. I'll give that a try over the weekend.

Jim R, September 2009

The float chamber (if its the same as mine) is like an upside down dome, round in section. There is a central nut for removing it and also one slightly to one side - which acts as a drain.

John, September 2009

Which bottom nut? Sorry to sound so dim!

Jim R, September 2009

The carburettor float chamber is flooding....undo the bottom nut and the chamber, complete with gasket will drop clear, revealing the white nylon float. Ideally you should take the float off by pushing out its hinge pin...this will pull the needle valve with it - which is being held open by some dirt on its seat. This can normally be done in situ, but it is easier to take the whole carb off.

John, September 2009