Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Murray 12.5HP B&S Rider Problem, crankcase oil, smell of gas

Question
Jeff,
It's been a couple months since I last used my Murray rider.  I tried to start it up a week ago and it seemed to warm up alright, but after 10 minutes or so started sputtering a little which increased over the next 10 minutes until it finally died.  I checked the mower over, decided the air/gas filters could use changing and might as well change out the spark plug while at it.  So I did that and tried starting it again, it sputtered and died.  I decided I'd leave it for a few days and research.  Over the next few days, I noticed the smell of gas whenever I was within 20-30 feet of the mower which has never happened before.  About 4 days after doing the maintenance, I took a look for a gas puddle or something and noticed that the gas tank was completely dry!     First thing I thought was that maybe I had installed the inline fuel filter improperly, but there was no wetness at the connection points, the clamps seemed solid and the filter appears to be allowing flow in the correct direction.  There was no stain/puddle underneath the mower.  My thinking is that maybe something is sticking or has stuck in the  carburetor but I'm no expert.  I believe this mower was new around 1994 or 95.  Thanks for your help,

Jonathan

Answer
 Hello Jonathan:

 Check the Crankcase Oil. It is where the Gas Went. The Float in the Carburetor Isnt Seating Properly and the Carburetor is Flooding the Engine when it is Not in Use. The Gas Fills Up the Cylinder and then Seeps by the Rings Into the Crankcase. Install a Cut Off Valve in the Gas Line and Turn Off the Gas Flow to the Carburetor when the Mower is Not in Use. You can Rebiuld the Carburetor, but I have Found that the Carburetor Rebuild will Last for 3 to 4 Months and then it Starts All Over. That is Why I Suggest the Cut Off Valve. All my Customers have the Manual Cut Off Installed and this Problem Hasn,t Occurred Again with their Mowers. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John