Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn tractor wont fire, craftsman riding mower, fuel air mixture

Question
I have a craftsman riding mower w/B&S 19.5 engine. It turns over very well, but does not start. Changed plugs and fuel this season and had new carb installed last season. Fired right up on first try this week and drove from shed into garage where it now sits. Getting spark and seems to be getting fuel into carb as i can see it and smell it, but won't fire. Burped a little yesterday but would not run...$315 repair last year for carb, any help b4 they get more of my money this year?


Answer
Hi Steve,

An engine needs 3 things to run.  Proper fuel/air mixture. Strong, timed spark.  Good compression.
If you have good spark and the engine is getting fuel, then I would suspect low compression or a valve problem.  Do a compression test.  If okay, check the ignition timing.

Let me know what you find.
Michael