Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): sears rider wont start, leak gas, charge thanks

Question
4 year old craftsmen rider. 18 h.p. B.&S. lt1000.
It ran o.k. then one morning it would not start.
the starter seloniod makes clicking noise. I replaced selonoid
but still the same. any ideas?
Thanks,  Rod

Answer
 Hello Rod:

 Disconnect the Plug from the Coil and Turn the Engine by Hand. The Starter Gear May be Binding with the Flywheel. If Not, and if the Clicking is Coming from the New Solenoid, Check the Starter for Bad Brushes and Bushings. If You Can Not Turn the Engine by Hand, then Remove the Spark Plug and Check for a Hydro-Locked Cylinder. Sometimes the Carburetor will Leak Gas by the Float and Flood the Cylinder. If this has Happened, then Install a Cutoff Valve in the Gas Line and Turn Off the Gas Flow After Each Use. Drain the Crankcase and Let it Air Out for 24hrs. Then Refill with SAE30 Engine Oil. You can Rebuild the Carburetor, but this will Help for a Couple of Months and then you will have this Problem Again. I Suggest a Carburetor Rebuild Only if the Engine is Not Running Properly. The Cutoff Valve will Stop the Flooding Problem. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John

 Hello Rod:

 I Forgot to Ask About the Battery. Does it have a Full Charge? Thanks.

 Respectfully

 John