Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): carbruator problems I think, solenoid valve, crank case

Question
Ben I just read a question sent in by Jack dated 11/30/10...my problem is just about the same as his but I have taken it to a local small engine repair shop...this is what I have Sears tractor with a Kohler engine #CV490S, Spec #27508, Serial #3308704263, Command Series, 490cc displacement, Family 3KHXS.4902GB...with that out of the way here is my problem, when I try to start the motor it will back fire, spit, sputter and then die...the local repair shop installed a small cut off valve which did not fix the issue, as with Jacks problem gas did make it to the oil pan that was the reason for the cut off valve...I took the tractor back to the shop and he informed me that it was working which it did for about a month ran great and then started doing the same thing spit, sputter and then quit when I had my daughter ask him what he had done it said that he had fixed it temporary since then he has moved and I dont know where to find him...what would cause this mower to act like this, carb has been dipped and I blowed out every port I could find. Sir any help will be greatly appreciated since this my daughter's mower and she does not have the means to purchase another one, someone mentioned that it could be the safety fuel shut of solenoid valve on the bottom of carb??....Thank You Charlie Hopkins

Answer
Charles

Are you talking about the fuel shut off is that what they installed? The fuel solenoid is used to stop fuel so it doesn't flood or stall the carb. Try this with the mower off turn the key switch to the on position don't try to start it. Listen for a click when you turn the key on and off. If you hear a click that means it is working fine. The other problem is not how much you cleaned the carb,is it went back together they say way. Check your float if the float is  not seated corectly fuel can leak in to engine and cause flooding,stalling leaking, and putting fuel in the crank case and in the oil.If you need parts We can get them to you.