My mower was running great then it just stopped. no sputtering or anything. I have checked the plug for firing. Firing is fine. The carburator is getting plenty of fuel. All safety switches have been checked. The motor turns over fine just will not start. The timing has also been checked and it is okay. I have taken the plug out and put starter fluid in the cylender and still it will not start. What now? This is a Craftsman riding mower with a 12.5 horse briggs and stratton engine with a 42 inch deck. I don't know for sure what the model number is.

Danny Kitchens, August 2006

Your engine is a BRIGGS, MODEL NO. 287707-1255-E1
It is an overhead valve engine. If the valves have gone out
of adjustment it won't run.
With the piston 1/4" past Top Dead Center the clearences should be. Intake .003-.005" Exhaust .005-.007"

If you have spark and fuel you should get something!
Are you sure the flywheel key has not sheared?

Rick, August 2006

I have also replaced the sylenoid. The model number is 917.270514

Danny Kitchens, August 2006

It was wet. I have even tried spaying starter fluid on to the piston then replacing the spark plug. when it died it just quit. there was no sputtering of any kind. it was like someone just turned off a switch.

Danny Kitchens, August 2006

When you pulled the spark plug out, was it dry or wet?

Rick, August 2006