Just looking at older posts. I see one about 149 won't start, last post on 1/21/16. Sounds almost identical to mine. Maybe I looking at the wrong valve.

If you suspect a stuck valve why not take a few minutes and pull off the breather? That would eliminate alot of guess work.

That's what I was wondering and couldn't remember where to look. So behind the breather and reed valve I should be able to see the valve stems?. I read in the post I referenced that by turning the intake stem, that got that motor going.

Did he take the time to measure the cylinder bore and ring gap?

Was the breather assembled with the drain hole towards the bottom?

My hydro IH Cub Cadet is the hardest one to start when it is cold (below 30 degrees. I use a magnetic heater on the rear end to warm up the oil.

Yes.

This is the only picture I have available;

http://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/s...&postcount=187

In the bottom picture you can see the carb has been removed and you can see the breather cover to the lifter gallery. Remove the cover and you will be able to see the valve stems.

x2 on that. My 1200 starts easy but the 1450 and the 1650 can struggle. That's why I make sure the battery stays charged up.

Pulling the head is easier.

It's not about whether the needle valve is moving free, it's about whether it is sealing when it is closed. It's not.

I already told you your looking at the wrong valve in post #7.

It floods because it's getting too much fuel. Or the timing is wrong, or the compression is low from a valve that isn't sealing.

There are several things it could be. I've already went over them. Taking the carb apart and looking isn't the answer. Your not going to see the issue. Take the air filter off. Turn the gas on. Wait. Is gas starting to come up and run out towards the filter? If so, your float is set too high, or the needle valve isn't sealing.

Try to start it with the air filter off. Is it spitting gas out the carb? If so, either the intake isn't sealing, or the timing is way, way off. Check the timing.

Answer these questions and post back. Or, just keep taking things apart and guessing.

Why would it run then for 2 hrs, back in and park, then not start 2 weeks later. While it sits, it doesn't leak gas, so the float and valve must work or gas would be on the ground or the tank would be empty? Who knows? Will get into the garage and check it out. Sure sounds like the 149 post though.

Those are some good observations... let us know what you find.:beerchug:

I sure will, thanks to all