Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Ancient Sears engine linkage, craftsman riding lawnmower, carbeurator

Question
Michael,

I have just been awarded a "free" craftsman riding lawnmower from my neighbor.  He had it evaluated by Sears at his home and was told the carbeurator needed cleaning.  The engine is stamped 143-286022 which is a Sears part number.  Upon examination of the carberator, there are two governor linkages that may or may not be properly set.  My big problem however is that there is a plate mounted overtop of the carberator that has the control arm actuated by the throttle control.  There is absolutely no linkage between that plate and the carbeurator. The arm is moving absolutely nothing.  Since the little piece of fuel line looks recently replaced and the engine does run with a shot of starting fluid, I have to figure that if I get the linkages together correctly it will work.  Do you have the wherewithall to find detailed illustrations and part numbers for this complicated linkage enough for me to get this puppy running?  BTW, I can probably take some digital pictures of this and send to you if you need some clarification.

Thanks,

Dan

Answer
Hi Dan,

What you say sounds correct.  Sorry, I don't have or know where to get the info you ask for.  I would go to a local repair shop and ask to order (or buy used) a linkage part.  They may let you look at some junk riders and you may be able to match up one.

Good Luck.
Michael