Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn mower, craftsman model, model craftsman

Question
I put too much oil in my riding mower, what can I do about that and what kind of damage will that do? Also, after starting the mower it will not turn off. I have to disconnect the spark plug in order to shut it off.

It is a older model Craftsman, model # 502.255040

Answer
Drain or remove excess oil.
Refill as necessary.
Remove spark plug.
Crank engine to remove excess oil from cylinder.
If oil got in the muffler, I would remove the muffler, drain oil and then clean with parts cleaner.  Let muffler dry so it does not cause a fire.

Install spark plug, start engine.  It may smoke for a while until the excess oil burns out of the cylinder and muffler.

If you didn't run the mower very long you probably didn't do any harm.  If you ran the engine for a while then the top main bearing/bushing may be wore.  

As far as the shut-off, check the ignition switch connection and the engine shut off wire.  The engine shut off wire is located on the engine block, usually a spade termial near the throttle control are.  The only other wires on the engine may be a carburetor shut-off soleniod wire and the alternator wire.

Let me know what you find.
Eric