Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn tractor, walbro carb, sears craftsman

Question
Sears Craftsman model 917.270711. Mower had been starting roughly, with a puff of white smoke.  Condition got worse over time. Very hard to start- sometimes gas (?) shot out the muffler at startup.  Then the mower would work for a short time before stalling with a large puff of white smoke (seemed to occur just after I engaged the blades). There was definitely gas in the oil crankcase. The carburetor float, needle, and seat all looked physically OK. I have not yet replaced these parts. Other than the carburetor, are there other things that I should consider? Thank you.

Answer
Change the oil two to three times to remove all the gas/oil from the engine.

Usually the inlet needle will fix the problem.  If you have the Walbro carb the seat is replacable but 99.9% of the time a new inlet needle is all you need.  I would recommend checking the float but Briggs floats do not leak too often.

Let me know if this helps.
Eric