Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman II riding mower, briggs and stratton, dull blades

Question
Hello Michael,

I have a Craftsman II riding mower with a  12HP BRIGGS AND STRATTON ENGINE, MODEL NUMBER 281707 TYPE NUMBER 0412-01.
It idles fine but when I lower the blades and start to cut, it will run well for about 30 seconds and then shut down. It seems to be fuel related but I'm not sure.Any ideas?
Chris

Answer
Hi Chris,

A lack of fuel flow will cause a loss of power and even stalling.  First, check the deck for a build up of grass or other obstructions.  Also look for dull blades.  Check the deck pulleys, belts and bearings to make sure the power loss is not coming from there.
If those easy things check out okay, I would look at the carb.  Try squirting fuel or starting fluid directly into the carb inlet as the stalling occurs.  If the power picks up, then a low fuel flow is confirmed as the problem.

Let me know what you find.
Michael