Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 8hp briggs and stratton, 8hp briggs and stratton, briggs and stratton

Question
I just received a rear engine murray riding mower.  It was parked three years ago in a garage (fuel emptied I believe). According to the owner, it ran fine when parked.
It is key start with battery only.  The mower was produced in 92, Murray no longer offers the manual on paper or electronically.  

It has a Briggs and Stratton model 195707  type 011201  code 920317 10.......8hp.

My question is, besides changing oil, fuel filter, air filter and spark plug.......what else needs to be done before I attempt to start it?

Also, can a pull start be added to the engine?

Thanks,

Mike

Answer
Yes, the newer style pull start can be added.  If the fuel tank was bone dry, the carb might be flooding so don't put in too much fuel,
but that should be all you need to do before trying to get it going.
  If you have a flooding carb, you can drop the bowl down and see if it is just a stuck float.
  Let me know what you find.

Fish