Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sabre (Briggs) Wont Start, Blows Fuse, bare wire, short shorts

Question
Hi Chris, I'm trying to get an old Sabre tractor going, 13hp Briggs.  There is a 15A ATC fuse that blows when I turn the key to Start.  What's the fastest way to troubleshoot?  I don't see any bare wires or likely shorts, and I don't have a wiring diagram. I can jump the solenoid to engage the starter, but there is no spark.

While you are at it, there was gas in the oil.  I have drained it and put new oil in... not sure if the gas will re-appear.  Any advice on that?

Thanks!

Answer
Gas in oil is usually caused by a leaking carburetor inlet needle.  You may have to replace the inlet needle and seat.

The blowing fuse is caused by direct short.  Shorts can be difficult to find.  A multimeter will help but most of the time we find them by hand.  A bare wire or insulation is bad.  Check all the wires by hand especially where they run through the frame.  Several times we have found wires pinched behind the starter where someone tried to install the starter.

How old is the engine?  It may have points causing you not to have spark.
Let me know.
Eric