MTD briggs 5 hp will not start getting spark but seems like no gas to plug. Carb appears difficult to pull,any suggestions? Thank you PaCKRAT

Usual things to try/check: starting fluid, fuel lines, fuel filter, fill tank 2/3, gas in tank ;) .

Also, if fuel has been sitting in it since fall, carb float might be stuck if it's a float type or other carb parts gummed up.