Not sure why Briggs & Stratten won't start?

If this is the type with a float chamber on the carb, remove it and check that the main jet is clear. If you don't want to remove the carb, use carb cleaner and spray it through the jet from underneath.
If it's the 'tank under the carb' type, there is a rubber diaphragm between the carb and tank. Replace it. Cures 99% of fuel problems on these engines.
Put a new plug in it while you're at it.

Phil Saunders
November 2007

More than likely the carb needs cleaning because after it sat up the fuel turns to a laquer type slim.....take plug out or pour a bit of fresh fuel in carb and try to crank..if it runs and quits theres your problem .......if not pull the plug and with it grounded to case with plug wire on it turn the mower over and look for spark ....if no spark its proably the ingnition fault

bg
November 2007

Try checking that the spark plug is clean and the air filter is clean. Your mower may have been working prior to storage but just on the verge of needing some attention. Good luck!

J. R. Taylor
October 2007