Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): riding mower fires but wont run, blown head gasket, craftsman model

Question
Hi john I wrote you earlier about my Kohler engine craftsman model cv492s 18 h.p.spec 27506.  Since you talked about the carburator solenoid causeing both problems of the firing and gas leak under plate I tried to takle that first.  My solenoid threaded shaft was very short only 1/4 inch threaded area total 1/2 inch to tip of plunger. The hardware only had a 3/4 your reply said 1/2 to 3/4.  I bought the 3/4 but could tell it was not gonna make only halfway through.  I threw on some washers to reduce the  bolt threading to the 1/2 inch and tried to make the bowl reconnect.  It was so close but snapped the threaded shaft 1/2 inch was too much.  So I now got a new carburator and put that on and we're back to the begining engine popping to start but wont have a quick series to turn over.  I did find some small plastic pieces from my gas can in the fuel filter hose when replacing it.

Answer
Hi Again Greg:

Ok, Thanks for the Update on the Solenoid. I Looked at the Instruction File and Realized I had 2 of them. I have Incorporated them Into 1 File and that Should Prevent me from Sending the Wrong Instructions for the Solenoid Test. I Apologize for the Mistake. Check the Cylinder Compression. A Blown Head Gasket is the Next Check on the Diagnostics List. Once the Valve Cover is Off, Rotate the Engine to TDC and Make Sure the Push Tubes are Snug to the Rocker Arms. 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