Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Gasoline in engine oil, craftsman lawn tractor, briggs stratton engine

Question
Craftsman Lawn Tractor, 17 HP Automatic transmission, model 917.271660.  Briggs & Stratton engine 310707, type 0137-E1. Oil dip stick shows very overfilled and gas tank level is lower than when tractor was last parked.  A neighbor suggests it is a stuck carburator float valve.  What parts am I likely to need?  Thanks  

Answer
Hello Jess:

This is a Common Problem. You need to Install a Manual Cut Off (I use the Rotary Cut Off Valve; Part #11271. Most of your Local Small Engine Service Centers have them or a Suitable Substitute. You can Replace the Needle and Seat in the Carburetor, However this will Help for Only a Short Time. I have been Suggesting to My Customers and Online Questioners that they Replace the Needle and Seat in the Carburetor ONLY When the Engine is Running Improperly and Usually Flooding During Operation. If the Engine Isn't Flooding While Operating, then Change the Oil and Install the Cut Off Valve. That Should Carry you for 3 or 4 Seasons. You can View a Breakdown of the Engine at this Addy, http://shop.briggsandstratton.com/BShopProductListingPage.asp?rsvp=0&PARENTID=0&... and Enter the Model Numbers and the Type Numbers 0137 and Click Search. The Select the View PDF. This will Download a Breakdown/IPL for you to Print or View Online. Hope this helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John