Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Restarting Craftsman Lawnmower, craftsman riding mower, vapors

Question
Have a 1 year old Craftsman riding mower that starts fine when cold but if I have to shut it down after mowing for awhile, I have a hard time restarting it.  Usually have to wait 20 minutes or so & then it will start.  Also backfires often when turning it off.  Has done this since I bought it last spring.  Thanks.

Answer
 Hello Matt:

 You need to Check and see if the Coil is Firing to the Spark Plug when this is happening. If not the Ignition Module inside the Coil is Heating Up. If there is Fire to the Plug then The Carb is leaking fuel into the Intake Throat and the Engine is flooding. If this is the Case then Clean and Overhaul the Carb. 1- If the Carb is set too Rich on the High Mixture, it will have vapors in the Exhaust and this causes the backfiring. 2- If you are not letting the engine idle at least 5 min before shutting off; then that also can cause backfiring. Hope  this helps.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John