I have a 14.5 hp briggs and stratton engine on a riding mower and when I crank it and run it all the fuel is sucked out of the gas tank into the engine first it will shut off and then after I tried to crank it a minute I noticed the gallon of gas I put in it was gone so I drained the oil and took out the plug to remove the gas from the engine.
Do you think it's the solenoid (which gets hot and is clicking when I turn the key on) or the needle and seat is sticking, I am good with mechanic work but have never run into this problem before and look forward to learning something new

p.s. I don't really have any money so any options of me fixing this without having to buy a new solenoid will be very welcome.

Jimmy

Hi,
That solenoid is not the problem. Dirt in the carb, particularly sticking the inlet needle open is the culprit. Be sure to change the fuel filter in your cleaning.
Peace,
Clarke

OK, I have a Poulan 42 inch with a Briggs and Stratton 14.5 with the same problem, here is what I found, I think it is the fuel solenoid and here is why, mine gets heated up almost will burn you to the touch, I installed a simply ball valve to shut off the gas when not running but I don't think that will even help because when I start the motor it will not run properly unless I only open the valve 1/8 to let very little gas in... I'm wondering if B&S makes a carb without that stupid solenoid, I may just replace it, found the lowest price to be around 36 bucks... Still a rip-off if you ask me...

BTW, I do agree with Crigby that it's the needle that is stuck on the solenoid.. I cleaned the needle with carb cleaner and soaked the carb in carb dip... to no avail... will buy the solenoid and let you know what happens..