312-8 Not getting fuel

[oliver2-44 10,964]

I'm new to this forum.

I was given a Wheelhorse 312-8 and mower deck that been sitting for 5 years, It' all there, minor rust, rotten tires, etc,

The engine is a12hp, Kohler 301s spec 47812 which makes it an 1984 model, The starter flange is stamped 12-84. The vinyl tractor nameplate is faded/unreadable. but I'm guessing this could be a 1985 1st year 312-8. Is there any tractor parts that have date stampings? 

 

I soaked engine in diesel for a week to free it up before I tried to turn it over, and it now turns over nicely. Cleaned fuel tank, replaces hoses and disassembled/cleaned carb. (need to order a carb kit for  a new rubber gasket) The engine will start if i spray fuel in cylinder, then I can keep it running by spraying fuel in carb with oil can, but it won't stay running on it's own. I disconnected the hose from carb and gas comes out when I spin it over so the fuel pump appears to be working. I checked compression and I get 90 psi ( I realize it has the compression release so hopefully compression is better than that).

 

On a parts diagram I saw some models have a hose from crankcase breather to air filter, but this ones doesn't. and I don't see an open hole/fitting for one Is that correct, or is something missing. this begs the question is there a crankcase breather somewhere that I need to clean?

 

Also, the starter was dragging, so I pulled it and found the front bushing very worn, worked some grease into it, and it works better for now. Has anyone found a source for replacement bushings and possible replacement brushes (The $220 price tag for a new one is a little steep for this project)

 

I appreciate any suggestions on my fuel/air and starter problems.

 

 

[Geno 1,930]

Hello Oliver and

 

If you're getting fuel out of the hose to the carb and still have to feed it to make it run, something must be wrong in the carb.  "I can keep it running by spraying fuel in carb with oil can" tells you everything else is ok. 

[Robins 26]

Are you getting fuel in the bowl of the carb? if not then maybe the float needs adjusting? If you are getting fuel to the bowl then there could be a blockage in the carb. What brand of carb is it? Kohler, Carter or Wallbro?

[WH nut 553]

A place for starter motors

http://www.dbelectrical.com/default.aspx

[oliver2-44 10,964]

The best I can tell the carb is a Kohler. Looking at the parts diagrams the kohler carb float has a round hole in the middle (like mine) while the Walsbro has a "D" shaped hole in the middle of the float. Does that sound right?

[Forest Road 594]

Have you done anything to the fuel pump? Prob need a new one. Get a Facet electric.

Aside from that wait for your carb kit before going any further.