Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): J.D. 14SB, carburetor body, crankcase oil

Question
Hello,
I have a John Deere 14SB purchased around 1996.  It has been well cared for and always stored in the garage.  A few weeks ago when mowing about the time I completed mowing while I was emptying the bag it started making a started sounding like it was under a load and died.  Every time after that it would only run about 3 to 4 seconds and die again.  It would get progressively harder to pull the starter cord.  I've tried to check the coil and it appears to be ok.  I've replaced the plug.  I pulled the carb. and soaked it in carb dip cleaner for over 30 min. and rinsed and dried it out.  I reassembled and put in new gas.  I got it started and it did run for a couple of minutes but died again and wouldn't last for more than a couple of seconds again.  Now I can't even pull the starter cord.

Any ideas?????

Answer
Hello Trey:

What Does the Crankcase Oil Look Like. Is there a Gas Smell to it? 1- To Properly Clean a Carburetor and Eleminate it as the Cause of this Problem:  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 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. 2- Remove the Cylinder Head and Check the Cylinder. Is the Cylinder Smooth like Glass or Scratched Up? Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. 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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John