Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Fuel leaking out exhaust, valve covers fuel of fuel, craftsman riding mower, float bowl

Question
Hi,

I have a craftsman riding mower with a 24hp Kohler engine, while trying to start I noticed fuel running out of the exhaust.  

I removed the valve covers thinking it was maybe a stuck valve, but when I removed the valve covers, a large amount of gas dumped from each cylinder.  ANd also valves apear to be opening/closing normally.

What might cause the valve covers to fill with gas?

Thanks,

--mitch

Answer
Mitch
The reason that you have fuel in your engine is due to the fact that your carburetor Float bowl is not shutting off the fuel. Take the carburetor apart and Clean/rebuild you may be surprised when you find out all the gunk in the bottom of the bowl.