Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): riding mower backfiring, briggs stratton, fuel pump

Question
I have a sears riding mower model 917.271910 LT1000.
Today when I cranked it using the choke like always, it cranked then ran a couple of minutes then backfired and the engine went dead.  I recranked it several times and the same thing happens each time, almost.
If I pull the ckoke out and leave it out and at the samw time give it minimal gas it will run, but of course it won't move forward without going dead.
Each time I push the choke in, it goes dead.
Thanks for your help.
Danny


Answer
Danny
The engine you have on there should be a Briggs & Stratton Model # 407777 Type # 0167-E1 Your carburetor may need to be cleaned and overhauled. Not enough fuel is getting to the carb intake on the engine as it is starving for fuel.Try Rebuilding the carb and replace the carb Gaskets on both sides of the carb they are cheap and are hard to come off when you rebuild.Also Check the fuel pump to make sure it is working correctly and the filter.If you need parts let me know I can get them to you.