Symptoms indicate a clogged Main Jet.

IF the carb fuel solenoid isn't operating properly, the "plunger" is blocking the MJ. Make sure the plunger is free to move, after ascertaining you have 12V to the solenoid with the key ON.

Bill,

Thanks! She's purring along now.

And the problem was????

Feed back is always appreciated so we can all learn.

I had the very same problem with my Scotts (JD) and spent several hours looking for nothing! It turned out the battery was on it's last leg. Got to have that 12V to the anti fire solenoid on the bottom of the carb otherwise the plunger isn't opening and closing properly blocking the jet. Replaced my battery........problem soved!
If you google your trouble, you'll find a ton of similar issues with guys literally tearing the motor down for a simple fix.

How did the engine turn over with that weak battery? fuel solenoid only pulls small about of .2 amps or so. IMO even dead battery that will only click when you turn the key should have enough juice to open and close the fuel switch due to very little draw off the battery? even if it pops close IMO when you try to start the engine there should be enough fuel in the carb. to fire the engine if it spins fast enough then again IMO when you let off the key to the start position the solenoid would pop open due to the little draw off the battery and the charging system providing full charge to the battery and elect. system??????

" even if it pops close (solenoid) IMO when you try to start the engine there should be enough fuel in the carb. to fire the engine "

Well even if there is fuel in the carb, when the solenoid is closed, fuel will not get to the main metering jet, agree with the rest.

Walt Conner