Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsmen riding mower, spark plug gap, tecumseh engine

Question
my craftsmen mower has the tecumseh engine. It cranks over like its going to start but dies out. I pull the sparkplug out only to find out it has closed up and there is no gap so I reset the gap and try to start it again but the same thing happens.I've tried another plug and it does the same thing. the mower is very old.however last year I had the carburetor replaced and it ran pretty good.I also changed the oil and started with a fresh tank of gas. The mower does have a little oil coming from the exhaust. and does smoke when trying to start.Do I shoot the old horse or does it still have some life to it?

Answer
Hi Rick,

Lets start with the spark plug gap problem.  I would say that either the plugs are not the correct ones and too long or the piston is rising too high, which is not likely.
What plug number are you using?  I just had an after thought.  There may be carbon build up on the piston, causing it to hit on the spark plug electrode.

Let me know what you find.
Michael