Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman 15hp b+s, pivot pin, air filter

Question
Tractor was running fine,then made a ticking noise.I shut it off to check it.Oil was fine,but the air filter was full of gas.I removed and cleaned carb and air filter.When I tried to start again. The air filter fills with gas.I pulled the spark plug and its dry.Help

Answer
It's likely that the needle and seat are not sealing and fuel is running into the carburetor throat.  This can be caused by a worn needle and/or seat or dirt under the inlet needle. It can also be caused by the float having a leak or the pivot pin not allowing it to move freely. You can visually inspect the inlet needle...if it has a groove worn in it, it will need to be replaced. If this doesn't correct it, you may need to replace the seat as well and I recommend you have a shop do this for you (if you want to try it yourself, let me know and I can give you the details on how to replace the seat). If you find dirt under the inlet needle, you should clean the entire fuel system and replace the filter (so it doesn't happen again). You should be able to shake the float and listen if it contains liquid....if so, you will need to replace it. If the float doesn't move freely on the pivot pin, determine what is causing the problem and correct.  Hope this helps.