Sluggish and backfiring

[drambo]

My 9N started backfiring a lot recently. It also seems like it's running "sluggishly", It doesn't have the same power that it usually does. It took starter fluid to get it going, then yesterday it stalled out and wouldn't start again until the engine cooled down. Any ideas?

 

[souNdguy]

is it lean?

 

[drambo]

What does that mean exactly?

 

[souNdguy]

umm.. ok...

I take it you really have no experience working with internal combustion gas engines then..

Lean is a condition refering to the fuel air misture, where there is not enough fuel. It can make popcorn popping sounds, excessive heat, low power, sluggish stumbling acceleration, etc. Plugs may appear white and ashen if pulled and looked at, vs tan which is normal.

On the flip side, rich conditions make sooty black smokey exhaust, and black powdery fouled plugs. additionally the engine may gurgle as if applying too much choke. choke enriches the mix by upping the fuel to air ratio.

Lets start out by checking if enriching her a bit helps any.

The easy way to test this is by use of the choke knob. if adding a little choke smooths it out and solves the problems, then we can go to the carb. it may have plugged jets, or simply be adjusted too lean on the main circuit.

 

[old]

As sound say maybe running lean or. If opening up the main just a little does not help go out and run it till it dies and then check for a good spark that jumps a 1/4 inch gap or more. If you have a weak spark or no spark your coil maybe going bad

 

[drambo]

You take it correctly, thanks for explaining. I'll try the choke trick this evening.

 

[souNdguy]

Ok, no prob. We have all kinds here, from new to wrenches to master mechanics. Just wanted to make sure I knew where to start, didn't want to shortcut you.

Post back, we can get you going

 

[Bruce (VA)]

And if that doesn't work.....

When is the last time you replaced the points, plugs, condenser, rotor & cap & set the timing?

These old tractors require a lot more maintenance than new vehicles. (see tip # 40)
75 Tips

 

[Ultradog MN]

Agreed.
Always check your spark FIRST.