Engine will not turn over

there is a mixture screw on the bottom of the carb where it meets the manifold try turning it out a little

The proper way is to remove the tank from the unit. You can also use a vacuum type device to remove all the fuel and water although it is very difficult to remove everything without removing the tank. Make sure you do not use a motorized vacuum device unless it is ul rated for use around gasoline!!!!

sounds like the valve lash needs to be re set let me know if you need to tell ya how to do that

You can enter your model info @ www.searspartsdirect.com and try to see what you can get on there or go to the Briggs & Stratton site with your engine model and type (stamped on metal engine cowling up top), and try there. They have real good parts breakdown lists with diagrams etc. It is:
http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/manual_and_more/

Check the float in the carb. It may be stuck in the up position due to debris

stuck needle valve or bad float in carb.

First check the oil, not only the level but the smell
if its overfull and it smells like gasoline then the problem is that your carb is dirty or the float is sticking and flooding the engine with gas. If the oil is at the correct level then the problem is more likely the valve stem seals, as the engine warms they leak. I presume you have checked the airfilter is clean? The choke is comming off completely when you move the throttle cable? The LT 1000 is the entry level rider in the sears line. The engine usually starts wearing out in about 50 hours use. Remember the sweetness of low price is long forgotten with the bitterness of low quality!

The carb's needle is stuck open remove carberators float bowl and replace the needle and seat for the float or you can spray the needle and float with carb cleaner while working the float up and down this may work if you don't want to replace parts.

What is on the flywheel?
You can wash it off with water spray or clean with soapy water. Let engine cool down before cleaning it. Let it dry before running the engine.

If you have 3 qts. of oil in your mower, drain it immediately. It only holds 3 PINTS or 48 ozs or 1 1/2 qts. Next, remove your spark plug and put the end away from the hole (to prevent possible arching and fire) and crank the engine over. Probably, a lot of oil/gas will blow out, clearing your cylinder. Clean the plug and try to restart. If it still reaches a point where the engine will not turn past while trying to crank, the valves need to be readjusted. Also check by smelling the dipstick that there is no gas mixed in the oil. That would mean your carb needle and seat are leaking.