Thanks very much for the very informative reply Rodeobob.
I worked out that with this particular mower, the best cold start procedure is fuel on - press primer once - throttle in run position - pull. It's been starting on the first pull using this method when cold. Warm starts have always been ok on this one - first pull.
I agree it is a nice clean mower...thanks. I've actually cleaned it up a bit since the above pics were taken....probably a bit overzealous on my part. Got everything nicely buffed (kero & rag) and trimmed the daggy bits of the decals. I also removed the muffler and buffed it up a bit on the bench grinder (wire wheel). It was looking a bit out of place there.
I agree with you regarding painting the decks & I'm glad to get advice from a "voice of experience" about it. I really dislike painting because I always go for perfection which adds massive time to the project. I'll take your advice and leave the original paint as is. If any mowers are in too poor a condition, I'll use them for parts only.
I was thinking about a $160.00 price tag for that mower (after I replace the piston). Yes it has new blades, piston rings, air filter, primer, starter rope etc and all the other "usual suspects" were either checked, cleaned or replaced. I just like to be thorough so I'm confident when selling it. I'd rather spend an extra couple of hours at this end so the next owner gets an extra couple of years at his end...well, that's the theory anyway.
By the way, you were spot on regarding the age of this mower. According to the production year stamp on the engine, it's a 1996 model.
I'm still new to the Victa scene & only picked up my first one (the one in the pic) a few weeks ago. Now I've got 5 powertorques plus a Morrison (with a Tecumseh TVS90). They were all freebies but now the "dead space" behind the shed is quickly becoming prime real estate. I'd better start selling some soon!
I'm still trying to get my head around all the variations in engines/carbs betweens different powertorque models. Thank God for the internet and forums like this one. Thanks again for your comments and advice. It is very much appreciated.
