Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Riding Mower Starting Question, briggs and stratton, mechanical aptitude

Question
Hello,

My father recently gave me a house warming gift.  A 1996 TurfPro by MTD 14.5 HP / 42" Cutt 7-Speed - IC 269CN.  It has a Briggs and Stratton 14.5 hp / Model #287707 /Type 0224-01 /Code: 96030570 engine.

When it starts, it runs great.  The problem is 2-things:

1. More than not, when you turn the key, the starter just spins and is not engaging the flywheel.  All of the teeth look good.  Could this be a spring that is not pushing up the starter into the flywheel?

2. The engine floods very easily.  Far too much gas is building up and when I take the plug out to relieve the pressure, it's like a gusher of gas.  

Any "economical" help you can provide is most appreciated.

Answer
Jeff:

Remove the cover that is over your electric start motor and clean the starter drive with something like BRAKE KLEEN and lubricate it with silicone spray.  If the plastic gear is worn on the starter it may need to be replaced.

The engine flooding is also an easy fix.  Remove the carb bowl and clean the inlet needle and seat.  Dirt is allowing fuel to flow past the needle into the cylinder and crank case...OR check your float and shake it to make sure it doesnt have any liquid inside of it.. if it does it needs to be replaced.  This is all economical if you have the mechanical aptitude.

Hope this helps.