Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn mower leaks gas, sears craftsman, seat assembly

Question
Marc,

I have a sears craftsman rotary push gas lawn mower.

I poured gas in the tank and it immediately started leaking out of the air filter connected to the carb until the gas tank was empty.

Can you offer a suggestion as to a fix?

Thanks,

Fred

Answer
If fuel is running out of the air filter, there is a problem with the needle and seat assembly not controlling the flow of fuel into the carb.  There can be several causes.  The needle and/or seat may have debris under it or it can be worn out...a visual inspection will determine this.  The float could be saturated with fuel because of a hole in it.  The float pivot point could have a problem because of old fuel varnish preventing it from moving freely.  Start by removing the the carb, cleaning it thoroughly with a piece of tag wire through all of the passages and follow up with aerosol carb cleaner.  Then do a thorough visual inspection.  Hope this helps.