From your description, it could be either bad spark caused by an ignition component overheating (likely the coil or condensor), or crud in the fuel system (likely the tank).Statistically, rust in the fuel tank is MUCH more common than a bad coil, especially if the tractor is kept outside. So, start by physically examining the inside of the tank for rust. A flashlight and a dentist's mirror help. You can also check the sediment bowl; if there are fine particles of rust in the bowl, the odds are good there are larger ones in the tank. If the fuel system checks out ok, try the following. Get a plug and gap it all the way out to 3/16". Pull a spark line and pop it on the plug. Clamp the plug to a good grounding surface and crank away. You should see a nice, fat blue spark. I'd probably take the time to check all four, but only remove ONE line at a time, so you don't mess up the firing order. Keep the plug with you. The next time the tractor stalls, hop off and IMMEDIATELY and check the spark with the 3/16" plug. If it is yellowish and weak after stalling, but returns to normal after your self-described 15-20 seconds, it is at least possibly an electrical problem; the coil and the condensor are the most likely suspects, but it could be points, rotor, a loose connection... Please let us know what you find. This is an interesting one.
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