This This sounds like a carbureture problem. There is dirt in the carb causing the float to stay open and flood the carb with gas. This is a dangerous situation and the mower should not be started when this is happening. IF you are handy with tools and know something about carbs you can fix this yourself. Otherwise take it to a professional.
Source(s):30 years experience repairing small equipmentThe air filter assembly is usually attached to it.
The air filter is usually located inside the canister that is bolted to the carburetor.
Most likely revving due to a dirty/clogged air filter.
under a plastic cover, next to the carb,
make sure the gas valve is turned on and you put the air filter in right
Most use the B&S# 491588
Front of the engine screwed to the carburetor
If you have fuel coming out of your air filter, then your carburetor bowl float is most likely gummed up an stuck. try tapping on the bowl, or you my need to take it off an clean it and the needle jet. How do you adjust air/fuel mix on a lawn mower motor?
Remove the air filter caseing disconenct the fuel pipe remove the bolts which hold the carb in place. L Davidson lawn mower tech
clean the air filter air is being restricted
The most common cause of engine revving is a dirty or clogged air filter.
I'm sure you can find one at any auto parts store, Walmart, or lawn mower repair shop. If they don't have the Craftsman brand, they will have a replacement filter of another quality brand.