wilkes

what is the best way to check the compression?

it's out of gas

It is out of time

http://www.ehow.com/how_804...-25hp.html

here is how to pull the flywheel, if you need it.

If you can make sure your govener linkage is connected make sure it is.

Check make sure you've got compression.

Not all mowers have the oil safety switch but good idea to check for it. Normally the hook up is down near the filter at the sending unit.

Backfires sound like a fuel issue or firing issue. I'd check make sure you've compression and then make sure your electronic ignition is ok. As I mention make sure your governer is hooked up cause that will make one backfire if it comes unhooked. Seen that a many a time on different engines.

the pressure switch would keep it from firing, so disregard that.

Sounds like it may be a fuel issue. Did you put fresh gas in it? Try a fuel filter and and a half cup of rubbing alcohol in the gas tank when you fill it up. If you haven't replaced the air filter lately, do that too.
good luck.

Did you check the oil? They have an oil pressure switch to cut them off when the oil pressure drops. Other than that it's hit or miss without having hands on it.

Hey there, I have a lawn machine riding mower with a kohler engine. I was cutting grass a while ago went up a small hill, and it quit but then kept going. A little later is died. Now when I try to start it, it turns over but then back fires every now and then. I went to the store and bought a new plug and it is firing fine. It seems like it is turning too easily when I try to start it. I poured some gas in the carb. and tried to start it but it did not make a difference. It backfires through the carb and the muffler. It is sitting in a half cut yard, please help!! And if you think it is a flywheel key (whatever that is) please tell me where it might be and what to do to check it. Thanks.