Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Scotts 1642, carburetor body, adjustment screws

Question
My scotts tractor appears to be dying.  Last week it started, but would putter and stall after a few minutes.  After a few minutes it would start and do the same thing.  This week it barely starts.  I replaced the oi filter, air filter, and the oil.  I checked the hoses going from the gas to the carb. What else could be causing the issue.   It's been running for 7 years with no worries.

Answer
Hello Kevin:

If the Gas is Free Flowing to the Carburetor, then it May be Either the Carburetor Requires Soaking and Cleaning or the Ign Module/Coil/Magneto May be Breaking Down. Check the Ign Module/Coil/Magneto First. Operate the Tractor Until it Stalls and Immediately Check for Fire at the Plug. If the Plug is Firing, then  Remove, Disassemble and Soak the Carburetor Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner (I Use Gunk). I have Found that Most People can Use a Breakdown/IPL and Disassemble the Carburetor Enough for Proper Cleaning. You Only have to Remove the Bowl, Float Pin, Float (if Applicable) and Needle Valve and Any Adjustment Screws that Go Into the Carburetor Body. The Welch Plugs Do Not have to be Removed. Then Soak the Carburetor Body and Parts in a 1 Gallon Can of Gunk Carburetor Cleaner Overnight. The Can has a Parts Tray Inside it for the Small Parts. Once the Carburetor and Parts are in the Cleaner, you can Replace the Lid for Safety and to Prevent Accidental Spillage. Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air. Install New Parts if Required. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers (Scotts) and Click Find. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. 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. 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