Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): rider lawnmower, fuel tank cap, kohler

Question
my mower is dieing out on me after running for approximately 5 minutes. after setting for 1-1/2 hours it will start again and repeat the process again. is the some part on the mower that is failing after heating up and the engine dies and won't restart, but works again after cooling down only to fail again after heating up again?
the engine is a 1995 kohler magnum, 17hp, that i bought new from sears. i have not had any repairs donr to this mower.  

Answer
It is possible that you are experiencing an ignition problem that is caused by heat.  Before you investigate the ignition, try this.  Loosen off the fuel tank cap a little so it can vent.  If the engine continues to run, you have an issue with the fuel tank vent (usually in the cap).  If this doesn't help, you will need to run the engine until it dies, then quickly check for spark.  If you have no spark when it's hot, the ignition module (coil) will need to be replaced.  If these suggestions aren't the problem, please get back to me with what you find.  Hope this helps.