I have an 11 HP Craftsmen Rider Mower. It shuts down during after a while when I am mowing. I think it might be overheating. The starter wont engage for at least 20 mins after shutdown. I have replaced the sparkplug and changed the oil and I cant see any obvious damge or problems with the motor when I look at it. Is there a temperature sending unit or something of the sort? And if so where, and how do I keep the temp down when its Air Cooled?

Jake Davis, October 2005

Since you stated that the starter wont go for a while I am changing my thought. I was going to say it was a carb or air issue, but now I am leaning more towards not getting spark. Check your battery to make sure it is holding a good charge. Then check your wire connections. If any are corroded clean then. make sure all ground wires are connected and clean. Then check your safety switches to make sure that they are not loose. I would concentrate on the safety switch that is tripped when you engage your blades. let me know how it turns out. Also give a model and serial number which will help provide more specific info

cholbach, October 2005