Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S engine stalling, dirty gas, charging system

Question
I have a B&S 14.5 HP Mod# 280H07, Type 0036E1, Code 060103ZD, Ser# 06012ZD62884 (from housing). This engine replaced one on a swisher trail mower, it was install in the spring of 2006. I keep having problems with the engine starts and dies shortly afterwards. I dropped the fuel bowl and cleaned it out, replaced the fuel filter. At times it will stay running and run for over 45 minutes to an hour and a half but then it will start dieing again.  This engine has less than 50 hours on it since installed, if it had dirty gas or water in the line it should have gone through by now (i am guessing). What can I check??

Answer
Emil

Have you checked the gas cap? If it's not venting properly the gas will stop flowing from the tank. Must create a vacuum.

Have you checked to see if you have spark at the plug when it stalls?
To check the charging system, you'll need a voltmeter. With the engine running at full throttle, you should get a reading of at least 13.5 volts at the battery....BUT...if the battery is shorted internally you may not get a reading this high but still have a good charging system. Chances are it's ok, and if the battery is more than 2 yrs old, it's probably bad.To check the charging system, you'll need a voltmeter. With the engine running at full throttle, you should get a reading of at least 13.5 volts at the battery....BUT...if the battery is shorted internally you may not get a reading this high but still have a good charging system.