John Deere stx38 User Manual
Page 44
3 - 12
4/23/97
TROUBLESHOOTING
ENGINE
Problem or
Symptom
Fuel overflows carburetor
vent
Engine stops when hot
Engine races or runs one
speed
Engine clatters
Engine won’t run
White smoke on start-up
Engine runs slow &clicks
Engine runs on after
shutdown
Engine won’t shut off
Hydraulic lifters are noisy
Bent push rods after new
lifters were installed
Hydraulic lifters over-
extended.
Check or
Solution
Dirt in carburetor. Float
sticking. Clean carb,
replace filter, check float.
●
Vapor lock. Check
temperature of fuel
system. Clear vent in top
of fuel cap.
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Fuel shutoff valve
closed.
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Move governor shaft
with engine running,
check for resistance.
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Lifter is collapsed.
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Lifter is stuck in bore.
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Water in fuel bowl of
carburetor.
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Engine RPM too low;
automatic compression
release still on. Adjust
low idle speed.
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Inspect ignition switch
and ground.
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Inspect engine ground
cable
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Adjust idle speed to
specs. Move throttle to
idle before shutdown.
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Inspect piston, valves,
cylinder head & exhaust
for high carbon build-up.
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“Prime” hydraulic lifters
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“Bleed” hydraulic lifters
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Check oil level
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