Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Fuel in oil, fuel leak, crankcase

Question
I Own a Scotts/John deere 2002 L17542 rider mower. My mower recently started running rough. I Realized that my crankcase was filling with gas. changed oil and ran for smooth 5-10 minutes, but started running rough again.checked oil,was too high and loaded with gas.I cleaned carb 2 times no solution.my carb has a elec.solenoid on bottom of bowl could this be bad or maybe i should replace carb. Thanks for your help

Answer
The solenoid you mentioned closes when you shut the mower off to prevent backfiring.  It will not prevent fuel from leaking into the crankcase.

The fuel leak you have is very, very common.  It is caused by either a bad float, a hole in the float making it heavy, or a leaky inlet needle and seat.  The inlet needle and seat is the most common part that goes bad.  We replace these all the time.  It is possible there is some small, very small, debris in the fuel system causing the inlet needle not to seal but my bet is the inlet needle and seat are the problem.

What engine is on your mower?

Eric