I have a Briggs 14.5hp riding lawn mower that when you try to start the flywheel won't turn or will make a slow turn and pause then another slow turn and stop. I cleaned the ground cables, replaced the battery, carb, and spark plug. Trying to jump across the solenoid doesn't work either so its not that. I was told that maybe the coil cold have vibrated too close and may need to be moved out a little? Also I have noticed that gas came out of the oil fill tube when I took it off. I checked the float in the carb and it seems to be fine. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Do the valves need to be set is so how?

OK, make sure (just looking at it doesn't tell) but smell the oil, does it smell like gas? Or is severely overfillled? Then replace it with fresh...
Also make sure no gas is in the combustion chamber locking it (take the plug out, let it turn a few times to purge)

And since it's a ohv, they need time to time rocker arm adjustments...
http://faqs.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/faqs.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=3441&p_created=1101860144

Do you have compression when you turn it over? If you do you may need new rings and gaskets if you have gas in the oil.

Worn rings and gaskets will not cause gas in the oil (maybe a small bit via blowby during combustion)
What usually happens is the float sticks, lets gas free flow up into the carb, through the breather and into the crankcase.

I have had both of these problems.

1. Fuel in the oil is due to slow syphoning through the carby via a faulty/dirty/sticky float valve. (What thebriggsdude said.) Yes mine was apparently in good condition but this is a known defect. Solution... installed an in-line tap in the supply line and I turn it off when the machine is not being used.

2. Your starter motor symptoms are the same as mine. Solution... adjust the valve clearances. Yes it appeared like sluggish battery/starter, or a stiff motor. (Mine were almost .030"! )

HOW?
Remove the bonnet assembly (six bolts and the headlight leads)
Remove the valve cover (four bolts)
Adjust clearances to spec (note 10mm spanner and a star driver required)
Reassemble
Viola!

Batts (Sydney, Australia)

I have a Briggs 14.5hp riding lawn mower that when you try to start the flywheel won't turn or will make a slow turn and pause then another slow turn and stop. I cleaned the ground cables, replaced the battery, carb, and spark plug. Trying to jump across the solenoid doesn't work either so its not that. I was told that maybe the coil cold have vibrated too close and may need to be moved out a little? Also I have noticed that gas came out of the oil fill tube when I took it off. I checked the float in the carb and it seems to be fine. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Do the valves need to be set is so how?
I have the same problem... did you get an answer?

I have the same problem....did you get an answer? I gave you the solution in my previous post...