20 Most Recent Yard Machines MTD Gold 185 HP Lawn Tractor 13AJ771S004 Questions & Answers

The fact the choke must be 2/3 applied to obtain a smooth idle indicates not enough fuel is being supplied by the carb at idle speed. Applying the choke richens the air/fuel ratio. I suggest you revisit the carb idle air/fuel jets, air passages and any adjustments as well as checking for intake air leaks.

it hooks to the rear of the deck and the bracket on the transmission. i just took this picture. i have three the same way.

Belt is worn out and needs replacing or maybe the jockey tensioner is not operating on the belt hard enough to prevent slippage. If its all in good condition get a good DIYer or mechanic to have a look. If not its down to your local garden machinery shop.

Loosen the gas cap and try again. Many times the ethanol gas clogs the Vents on the gas tanks

Outdoor Power Equipment Parts Use the Part Finder Tool from MTD and it will, the variable pulleys and belts need to be uncoupled, maybe try depressing the pedal a little (ON FLAT GROUND) park brake disengaged.

have you changed the gas?

I found a web site with your info and more, like the entire parts and operating manual, all free!!

http://lawnandgarden.manualsonline.com/manuals/mfg/bolens/696.html?idRes=11384702

Go to page 34 for the schematic. John

bad clutch pulley change it out

Does it crank at all? was the starter removed then tested? It could be the engine is frozen or the battery is dead

First check 4 things.

Check the gas tank for fuel (I know it sounds silly)
Change the spark plug
Clean or replace the air filter
Try charging the battery (you can also try to jump it just like you would with a car).

Let me know if none of these things work and try to give me more details about what happens when you try to start it.

The tractor has a variable speed pulley for the 1-6 gears. You will want to check the top pulley on the shaft that is in the center of your tractor between the engine and transaxle. you may have broke the spring or adjuster.

Go to partstree.com and enter the info it asks for IE: Mtd mod #13aj771s004 then follow what it asks for.
its worth a try

need to remove float bowl and clean it and pull the jet in ctr out and clean it also, there should be fine small holes in it you barely see sometimes and if it has a rollover solenoid ( electrical solenoid in float bowl clean it as well ) so that ir actully moves up and down as you cycle key from off to on. also check your fuel filter strainer in carb , its a little screen most of the time in carb base on top part, lots of time this will partially plug up also and of course check your needle and seat while you are there! should take care of your fuel problem. If you have an external fuel pump I would also check to make sure it is pumping by pulling hose off carb and rolling eng. over, should squirt gas out.....good luck