Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftman 17.5 horse backfires and wont start, fly wheel, proper manuals

Question
I was cutting my grass, and ran out of gas.  I coasted to a stop, put some new gas, and now my rider wont start.  I am going to start by replacing the spark plug,  and i have read that may be the fly wheel key has been sheared. I am somewhat handy, can you tell me what the flywheel key looks like, and how to check/change it, if that is what i need to do.  Or just please lead me in the right direction.  Before this my mower worked perfect, i have had it for 5 years and never had any problems what so ever. help please.

Answer
Hello Uriel Olmos:

From your Description it Sounds like you Picked Up Trash into the Carburetor Jet. I Suggest you Disassemble the Carburetor and Spray it Out with Compressed Air. To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists for you Equipment Using the "View Sub Components" Section Near the Bottom Left.  If you have Trouble Locating a Breakdown of the Carburetor, then Send me the Engine Model Numbers, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper manuals and Assist you Better. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John