Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears YT 14.5 Twin Wont Start, starter fluid, safety switch

Question
John,
My father's 1987 Sears Model 917.254310 tractor was shutting off when it got hot. He took it to a repair facility, who stated it needed carb rebuilt & did so. He got it home & it started a couple of times , but now won't start at all. Sounds more like an electrical issue (solenoid, safety switch, etc..) to me. The engine on this unit is a B & S Model 400707 Type number 0126-01. Dad is 80 & hate to see him spend money unneccessarily again on this unit, as it is in excellent shape other than the described problem. Any suggestions?

Respectfully,

Joe  

Answer
 Hello Joe:

 Check for Spark at the Plug. The Quiting Until Cool is a Sign that the Ignition Module/Coil is Going Bad. It Heats up and Grounds out. Then when Cooled Enough it will Expand and Lose the Ground and the Engine will run until it Heats Up Again. As for not Starting Now; Have you Primed the Engine to See if Gas is Getting to the Engine? Spray a Small Amount of Starter Fluid into the Carb Throat while trying to Start the Engine. What Happens? Is there Spark at the Plug? I have Looked up the Engine in Question and as Long as it hasnt been Run Low on Oil and Abused, it is a Reliable Engine. Hope this Helps. Let me Know what Happens, Please.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John