[three4rd]

Originally Posted by cadzag72

I haven't been through all the other threads in their entirety, but I have an idea that may help. It's really cheap, too. I was thinking perhaps if the engine is cranking harder with the choke out, and has very little power, it may be as simple as you having a clogged air filter. I had one come through the ranks that when I picked it up, it would run but always sound like it was fighting itself to stay running, and engaging the deck would almost kill the engine. I pulled the air cleaner cover, and sure enough, packed solid with who knows how many years of crud. It's easy to check and cheap to replace, and should save you some headaches. If someone has already mentioned this in the other threads, then my apologies, and best of luck getting it sorted! If you feel overwhelmed, getting help is never a bad thing.

Thanks for the suggestion but I had replaced the air cleaner just a few weeks ago and also I take it out frequently and use the air compressor on it to blow it out. I don't let them go too long...used to but of late I've been replacing them fairly frequently.