floats in the carb

I can not seem to get my floats to open up. If I use a screw driver the engine runs fine. But as soon as the floats close (or I take the screw out to hold them open) said engine dies? What am I missing to keep them open?

Huh??? Floats don't open, they float

I believe they work essentially the same as the fuel gauge sending unit. They "float", as Larry says, on the surface of the fuel in the float chamber. If that level get's too high, they close a valve to shut off input from the fuel pump. Essentially they are a dampening mechanism ensuring that the jets have a steady source of fuel regardless of variations in fuel flow due to engine speed (valid only for mechanical pumps). If they are closing too early and shutting off fuel flow, they may be adjusted too far down, or they may have a leak causing them to sink rather than float. If you remove the float from the carb and jiggle it, does it sound like there's liquid in it? Also, Check your manual to see what they are supposed to be adjusted to.

I had similar problems on an old MG with SU carbs. I'll be working from home tomorrow while we get new carpet installed. Feel free to call.

Do you mean the throttle plates? Looking down the carb throat they look like brass quarters or 1/2 dollars with rod thru diameter? They should open as you blip the throttle. If you mean floats then they maybe have a hole and they're sinking?

Yeah, what he said. If it's the throttles you probably only need to adjust the idle screws - maybe.

Yeah, what Lane said, but without a 40 oz Brew 102 in my hand!

Yes it is the throttle plates and I guess i should have mentioned this... it is for my john deer push lawnmower too. I cut the grass last night and I had to insert a piece of straight copper into the carb to keep the plate open so I could get the job done. I do not know why they are not staying open on their own. Last night was the first time I have ever had an issue with the B&S engine.

Whew! I was worried that you had a problem that might prevent you rom the Dragon Run this weekend. Still wanna caravan up (at least to Hendersonville)?

ok,

Now that we know it's the throttle plate on the carb of your Briggs and Stratton engine, Check to see if the govenor is loaded up with grass or debris. It's spring loaded and is designed to keep the engine from over revving and to maintain a constant engine RPM Next, check the the throttle cable. It may have come loose from the throttle plate bracket.

or idle speed screw backed out.

Mo Power Scottie! Darn, dual Weber 44IDAs on a 6hp Briggs & Stratton! What, Ya got extra time to fiddle with a lawn mower? (and even more to mow the grass which hasn't grown in near 2 months?) --- then ya need to come by and help me finish my Speedie.