If you're having trouble getting the engine to start, here are the problems we encounter most frequently:

Fuel

Is the fuel fresh?

Is the fuel tank empty?

Is the shut-off valve closed?

Is the fuel diluted with water?

Is the fuel line or inlet screen blocked?

Is the fuel tank cap clogged or un-vented?

Carburetor

Is the carburetor blocked?

Is the engine flooded?

Is the fuel solenoid (if equipped) functioning properly?

Ignition

Is the spark plug fouled?

Is the spark plug gap set incorrectly?

Is the spark plug lead faulty?

Is the kill switch shorted?

Is the flywheel key damaged?

Did the engine stop all-of-the-sudden after striking an object?