LT1500 from Hell cranking but won't turn over
Hey, everyone.
Moved into a large lot at the end of 2024 and was gifted a 2013 Craftsman LT1500. It's taught me a lot about small engines, changing deck belts, blades, springs, etc. I've had the deck off of this thing so many times I can do it in my sleep. It's most recent issue has me stumped, though, and I'm hoping for some help in diagnosing.
I was finishing the lawn two weeks ago and the mower just died. Not gradually, not a hard stop, just as though I'd turned it off. No coughing or sputtering, just... done. Checked the gas and had plenty. Checked the entire electrical system, and everything is good. Ended up pulling the spark plug and replacing it, along with the ignition coil as parts of the clamp inside the boot came off on the end of the plug. No love from the mower.
Pulled apart and ensured that the carburetor was getting fuel and that it was clean after having already been serviced before the season. All good.
Tried starter fluid in the intake. Nothing.
So, I have good spark, fuel in the carb, engine on full choke, good air intake, and it just cranks. I haven't tested compression, but I've watched the flywheel rebound after cranking, and if compression was the issue, I would have assumed a more, uh, dramatic engine stoppage. I'm at my wit's end and would love any thoughts anyone can provide. Not really looking to get a new mower, but man, this thing has tried my patience. I'm pretty mechanical adept, but engines haven't been my thing up until now.
Thanks in advance for any thoughts or advice!