JD 214 looses power after 30m of running

cbrake · Jul 29, 2015

Just got a JD 214 mower and working through the first tank of gas.

Overall, runs and mows well. It smokes a little when I rev the engine, but have not noticed any smoke under mower load. However, multiple times now after mowing for awhile (30m or so on a hot day) the engine looses power and RPM drops. If I turn off the mower deck, it will still sputter, but when I throttle down, it recovers and seems to run smooth again. I can sometimes mow another pass before it looses power again, and sometimes its quicker. I can typically drive it back to the garage (blades off) and it runs ok then.

Another other thing I've noticed is if I throttle up, and then down, the engine RPM stays up for a long time (not sure if this is typical). It seems there is a decent sized flywheel in the machine.

Appreciate any ideas where to start? My first guess is a fuel delivery problem. I just ordered a service manual, so just starting to get familiar with the machine.

Thanks,
Cliff

toolbox5 · Jul 29, 2015

I had one of those for years , sounds like your coil is crapping out , do you have the electric clutch ? when you shut it off it allows the coil more power so you can limp it back to garage . hope that helps .

toolbox5 · Jul 29, 2015

could also need points and condenser set too

cbrake · Jul 30, 2015

toolbox5 said:
could also need points and condenser set too

I assume it has a mechanical clutch (lever by steering wheel). Thanks for the idea -- I'll try to check spark next time it has a fit.

beenthere · Jul 30, 2015

That lever to the right of the steering wheel is the speed variator lever that changes the ground speed within any of the four gears. The clutch is the pedal on the left that is also connected to the variator speed control but when pushed all the way down allows changing between gears or putting the tranny into neutral.

The engine speed (rpm) is controlled by the throttle on the dash.

Almost sounds like an engine governor problem with the Kohler engine, but could be several things as already mentioned.

cbrake · Aug 4, 2015

after looking under the hood more, found the coil flopping around under the battery -- the bracket is broke. After re-mounting the coil, we've not had any fits as described above.

However, after today's mowing session, the starter won't turn over -- won't even click when I turn the key. Ran fine up to the point I shut it off. Thinking a safety switch must be bad or something else vibrated loose ...