Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Oil dripping into chamber, starter fluid, excess oil

Question
I have a Sabre/Deere 15.5HP gas (not two stroke) riding mower/tractor.  Last weekend, I did a quick tune-up (new plug, fuel filter, oil change, and air filter).  Unfortunately, I did not wring out enough of the new oil out of the foam portion of the air filter, and now it has apparently dripped into the chamber.  It started and ran fine after the tune up, but I tried to start it yesterday and it only ran for a minute before it died while coughing thick smoke.  After taking off the air filter, it was apparent that the excess oil from the filter had gotten into the carb and is apparently what is gumming up the works.  Any suggestions on how to fix this myself, without tearing the whole engine apart?  Would starter fluid do the trick to start it?  Is the new plug a goner?  Thanks!!!

Answer
Hi Bradd,

The smoking should stop as the excess oil burns off.  I would clean the spark plug, remove the air filters and run the engine in a dust free area until the smoke clears.  Clean the air filters, re-install them and you should be okay.  If the engine continues to run poorly, replace the spark plug.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael