Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): My go cart engine wont start, briggs and stratton, hp briggs

Question
Hi my name is michael and i have a 5 hp briggs and stratton engine for a go cart and it won't start. It turns over and sounds like its getting ready tostart but it just stops. It doesnt lock up. Its fairly new i'd say abot 2-3 years old please help me

Answer
Hi Michael,

An engine needs 3 things to run:  Good compression, timed hot spark and proper fuel flow.  
First, check the spark at the plug.  (Remove it, connect the wire, lay it against the engine head and watch the gap.) To check fuel flow, squirt fuel into the carb opening or add a tablespoon into the cylinder and try to start.  

Let me know how you make out.
Michael