Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Fuel flood, overhead valve engines, murray briggs

Question
I had a problem with my Murray (Briggs & Stratton) tractor with the engine loping. It would run OK with the choke partially engaged. I took it apart and soaked it in cleaner, and put it back together. I tried it out, and it ran well initially, but then fuel started pouring out of the top of the carb, from two holes in the top of the carb. When I took it apart, the center seal was tough to separate, and when I did it was like a bag of chips (struggle.....chips go flying). I didn't see anything broken, except possibly the tab on the float that snaps onto the inlet needle. It looks like the tab still works, but even if it didn't, it seems like the tab is just going to pull the needle open. The float should still push up to close the needle.

Did I break the float? Or did I create a different problem?

Thanks

Answer
Hello Rock:

From your Description it Sounds like the Carburetor Float Needle Valve is Not Seating Properly. However, Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. Many horizontal shaft, overhead valve engines have these numbers stamped into the OHV rocker cover. However, on certain overhead valve powered generators, the equipment manufacturer installs a decorative chrome rocker cover OVER the Briggs cover. If your engine has a decorative cover, it may be necessary to remove it in order to locate the Model, Type, and Code. You can Also Use this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/BS_modeltypecode.pdf for Assistance in Locating the Model, Type and Code Numbers of the Engine. Go to the Following Site Addy and Locate the Breakdown for this Engine. Direct me to the "Center Seal" you are Asking About, Please. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/manual_and_more/doclist.aspx?categ... and Enter the Model Numbers (XXXXXX) and the First 4 Type Numbers (XXXX) in the Appropriate Boxes and Click GO. Then Select Download PDF. Thanks.

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