Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn Mower Starts But Sputters Out, water in the fuel, carburator

Question
I have a brand new Craftsman 6hp lawnmower. Has worked well for 3 months. Upon return from vacation, I can't get it to start. Am afraid there may be water in the fuel line -- top was exposed to elements during my vacation and it rained heavily. Ehat are the symptoms of this? Does this ound correct? It does start, but then immediately emits smoky bursts and chugs, chugs, chugs, chugs, then dies -- in less than a minute. Help! How do I fix this problem? Is is water? Something else.  

Answer
 Hello Oliver:

 From your Description, Trash/Water has Gotten into the Carburator. You need to Clean and Rebuild the Carburator. Be Sure to Clean the Gas Tank and Gas Lines Also. If you send me the Make, Model, Type and Code Numbers Off of the Engine, I May be Able to Locate a Breakdown that will Assist you in the Cleaning of the Carburator. You can Try Removing the Carburator Bowl and Getting the Water Out of the Bowl. This May Cure the Problem. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.