Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Riding Briggs & Stratton Mower back fires and stops, murry lawn tractor, briggs stratton

Question
Hi,
 This is such a great service!  I searched the answers to see if my question was already explored and didn't find it.  We have a Murry lawn tractor with a B&S 16.5 HP engine.  It is an older one, and we're trying to keep it together for a while longer.  
 It backfires and then the engine cuts out.  Any ideas why?  Thanks for your help.
Bernie

Answer
 Hello Bernie:

 1- Change the Plug. 2- Check for Fire at the Spark Plug. If No Fire, then the Ignition Module/Point Set needs to be Replaced. Depending on how Old you Engine is it may have Point Set. If no Points, the Ignition Module will be in the Coil Most Likely. If it has Fire , then The Valves may need to be Serviced. Regind the Valves and Set the Valve Lash. When Asking a Question, Please Include the Engine Model Numbers if Question is about the Engine and the Model Numbers of the Frame if its about the Rider Itself. Hope this Helps.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John