Skip to main content

Repair information and troubleshooting for Craftsman-brand riding lawnmowers.

554 Questions View all

Mower dies when clutch disengaged

My LTX 1000 will crank and run right up until I put it in gear and release the clutch. Then it acts like I’ve gotten off the seat and sputters. If I push clutch in it runs, but if I don’t it completely dies.

Answer this question I have this problem too

Is this a good question?

Score 0

3 Comments:

Sounds like your mower can't produce enough power to cut the grass, although it does produce enough to run. This could be caused by not enough air getting into the system, not enough fuel getting into the system, or the fuel/air mix not burning well enough once it gets into the cylinder.

It's probably a clogged air filter. Could also be a clogged fuel filter or a bad spark plug.

If none of these fix it, then drain the gas out of the tank and add new gas to the tank. And add some Seafoam gas additive to the new gas before putting it in the tank. If there is any gunk clogging up your fuel system, the Seafoam will clean it out.

You can get Seafoam at most auto parts stores: https://seafoamsales.com/small-engines/

by

Turns out the seat switch was loose. I plugged it in securely and it worked fine after that.

by

I love it when its a simple fix by just checking the basics. Some keyboard warriors try but..... good for you!

by

Add a comment

1 Answer

Sounds like your mower can't produce enough power to cut the grass, although it does produce enough to run. This could be caused by not enough air getting into the system, not enough fuel getting into the system, or the fuel/air mix not burning well enough once it gets into the cylinder.

Not enough air: Make sure your air filter is clean. It could be clogged up, especially if there has been a lot of dust in the air when you have cut the grass. Replace it if you have any doubts about it. ''I believe this is the most likely cause of the problem.

''

Not enough fuel: If changing your air filter doesn't fix it, check your fuel filter; it may be old and therefore clogged up. Replace it if you have any doubts about it.

Not burning well enough: Check your spark plug. Make sure it is in good condition, and that it is gapped correctly. If you have any doubts about the spark plug, replace it.

If none of the above fix it, then drain the gas out of the tank and add new gas to the tank. Your gas might have gotten contaminated over time, and the contaminants might be gunking up your fuel system. Also, add some Seafoam gas additive to the new gas before putting it in the tank. If there is any gunk clogging up your fuel system, the Seafoam will clean it out.

You can get Seafoam at most auto parts stores: https://seafoamsales.com/small-engines/

Was this answer helpful?

Score 0

3 Comments:

will rev fast till clutch released not the fuel or air filter.

by

Seat switch checks ok still shuts off when brake/clutch released. air and gas not the issue

by

It's the switch under seat

by

Add a comment

Add your answer

aunttigger14 will be eternally grateful.
View Statistics:

Past 24 Hours: 8

Past 7 Days: 82

Past 30 Days: 351

All Time: 5,279