Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S 24hp running rich, engine model type, briggs and stratton

Question
Hi there.  I have a 2006 Briggs and Stratton 24hp Intek engine that ran fine last season but is giving me headaches this spring.  The engine starts up fine with the choke on, but wants to sputter, backfire, smoke (black) and try to stall when you push it back in.  Eventually it will run with the choke in, but it surges and has no power whatsoever.  I've pulled the carb and cleaned the heck out of it, it did have a fair amount of sediment and rust in the bowl.  I reinstalled it and the engine is still doing the same thing.  I've also changed the fuel filter, removed the gas cap, and inspected all the fuel hoses.  I'm at my wits end trying to figure this out, and I need to cut my grass!  Any help would be much appreciated!!!

Answer
My bet is there is still something in one of the carburetor passages.  Did you use compressed air from an air compressor to blow through all of the carb orfices?  Sounds like a carburetor air circuit is still partially blocked.  

Can you send me the engine model, type and code number so I can look up your carburetor?

Eric