Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn mower repair, spark plug, craftsman

Question
While recently cutting grass with a one-year old Craftsman 6.5hp mulching lawn mower the engine stopped. The grass was too high and I think it was more than it could handle. It started, but when I started cutting again, it stopped again. This happened about 4 times. I didn't hit anything, just grass. After the 4th time, it wouldn't start. I figured that I over-heated the engine and would let it cool down and try again later. Now it won't start. I replaced the spark plug and sprayed some starting fluid into the carb, but it won't start. Can you help me in my troubleshooting? Thanks. Jim  

Answer
You need to check for spark first.  It should be able to jump a 1/8" gap to ground if the ignition system is OK.  Also, when you try to start it, note whether the spark plug comes out wet or dry.  If it's wet, the problem is most likely ignition.  If it's dry, the problem is either carb or compression (leaking valves, etc.).  Let me know what you find.