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HomeRepair HelpLCT RepairLCT Small engine runs poorly Repair
LCT Small engine runs poorly
If your LCT small engine runs poorly, runs rough, surges, sputters, hesitates, or loses power, start with the carburetor. A clogged carburetor is the most common cause, especially when stale or ethanol-blended fuel has been left in seasonal equipment. As fuel evaporates, it leaves a sticky residue that can restrict the carburetor passages and cause small engine carburetor problems. Clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner, then rebuild or replace it if cleaning does not restore smooth operation. A carburetor repair kit can provide the gaskets and related parts needed for a proper rebuild. Next, inspect the spark plug for cracks, burned electrodes, heavy carbon buildup, or a weak spark, and replace it if defective. A clogged fuel filter is less common but can also restrict fuel flow and make the engine run poorly. If old fuel was stored in the tank, drain it and replace the fuel filter. Enter your LCT engine's model number to find the exact replacement carburetor, repair kit, spark plug, or fuel filter for your specific engine.
01 - LCT Carburetor
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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02 - LCT Carburetor Repair Kit
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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03 - LCT Spark Plug
Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or damage. If the porcelain insulator is cracked, an electrode is burned away or damaged, or there is heavy carbon buildup at the electrode, replace the spark plug. To determine if the spark plug is defective, use a spark plug tester. You should see a strong spark between the tester’s terminals when the engine is cranking. If there is no spark, this indicates that the spark plug is defective and should be replaced.
Highly Likely
04 - LCT Fuel Filter
The fuel filter might be clogged. A clogged fuel filter is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the fuel filter and cause the engine to run roughly. If old fuel was left in the engine, drain the old fuel from the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my LCT small engine running rough or surging?
Can an old fuel filter make an LCT engine run poorly?
How do I test the spark plug on an LCT small engine?
What should I check first when my LCT engine runs poorly after storage?
How do I find the correct replacement part for my LCT small engine?