[Hwyflyr]

I’ve had my '97 2182 for about a month and it is pretty sweet. BUT, I have an issue with the engine trying to die/surging after about 30-45 minutes after I start mowing. I searched the archives here and figured I’d replace the fuel pump. While I was there I pulled and cleaned the valves and replaced both rubber bungs. The previous owner my have replaced the fuel lines and it appears to have a fairly new fuel filter as it all looks pretty new. Thought I got this, and mowed again this week. About 30-45 minutes again the engine tries to die/surges again. I stop the tractor but keep the engine on, turn off the PTO and after about 10 seconds the engine is purring again at top speed. I engage the PTO and in a few minutes the surging is back. So I pull the carb off and proceed to semi remove the stem for the fuel valve wire my side cutters. And while I was at the shed I got the power washer out and washed the grime and dirt from the rear end part of the tractor and the deck since I was here. I thought I’m good to go but before I was done the surging came back. So I’m thinking there isn’t much of the fuel system I haven’t touched except the carb but it starts so well with a smidge of choke and I have no issues till long after a typical carb issue would show up. Also the previous owner gutted the gas cap. And I’ve not seen or noticed the battery light lighting up when this happens either so I’m thinking the battery is good for now.

So now I’m questioning if possibly the hydro unit might be giving me a fit. The power steering is hard to turn right but easier to the left. I’m not trying to turn when the engine surges but generally going straight when it happens but not saying it hasn’t happened while turning just didn’t notice it happening at that time. I haven’t replaced the filter and hydro oil yet as I ran out of time over the weekend and I have springs and buttons coming from my local cub dealer (only a few miles from me and the counter guys are cutting me a break as I’ve been seeing them fairly regular here lately?). But I’m at a loss of what’s next to check. I’ve been riding cubs for 40+ years and attempting to fix them for about 20 and this is starting to stump me. I have no issue with the mower calling for a beer break for me but I’d kinda like my wife to run this at some point. Point me in a direction and I’ll see what I can find