Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears LT1000 tractor problem, craftsman lt1000, sears craftsman

Question
Hi,
I have a sears craftsman LT1000. It has a Brigs vtwin 20hp intek single carb. When the blades are engaged it sounds like one of the cylinders is missing or stumbling a bit and a smell of gas. I took apart and cleaned the carb it looked clean. I also changed the fuel filter as well as the fuel pump. I changed the plug and the coil on the side that has the problem. the air and preair filter have been changed as well. after a short run (1-2min) I pulled the plug and it looks wet and smells of gas. the other side looks ashy. I'm at a loss. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Danny

Answer
Have you checked for a good spark at the cylinder that has the wet plug?  The carb sends an even amount to each cylinder, with that in mind I'd figure it to be a ignition problem, or internal engine component. I would also do a compression test on each cylinder noting the differences if any between the two cylinders, it's possible there is a stuck or burnt valve on one side. or even a broken ring. How did you set your coil gap? What are your plugs gapped at, they should be roughly .028-.030....Also try removing the small wire on the coil for your safety devices just for testing purposes, perhaps a safety device is canceling out that cylinder..........Tom