Sputtering

[Darrell]

My mower sputters and throws black smoke from the muffler. I replaced the air filter and the spark plug and changed the oil what else could it be?

[Mark]

Hi Darrell,

Black smoke would indicate that the engine is running too rich. The carburetor needs to be adjusted. It is a good idea to let a small engine shop adjust your carb as serious engine damage can result if a carburetor is adjusted too lean.

I hope this helps!

-Mark