Lawnmower stupidity

[Theadyn]

Okay, mowing the yard with a john deere self propelled, and stupid me, let it run out of gas (was on the last patch, too, grr..).     So, gas in, and it won't start.   Question:  is it just a matter of keeping yanking on the chain to get gas to the motor again to start, or is it something like debris or the like that's gonna require taking apart of things?

I hate mowing...   fwiw

[renbutler]

Running it down to zero causes air to get in the fuel line. You should have a priming bulb somewhere. In fact, you probably have to press the bulb to start it when it's cold. Try pressing it again to replace the air with fuel, then yank the chain again.

[Theadyn]

Thanks!!  There's no bulb anywhere on the mor I could see but look again tomorrow after work when it's daylight .  Thanks again.  :)

[Forcus]

It's also possible that crud in the bottom of the tank got sucked up and clogged the carburator. If after considerable pulling it still doesn't start, try taking the air cleaner off and spraying a little starting fluid in (which can help to get the fuel flowing once it starts, briefly). If still no joy then see if a mechanically inclined neighbor can help. Your problem isn't too difficult to fix. Running it out of oil or not changing it is where it gets expensive..