mower getting intermittent spark?

[SurfMowBear]

I have a troy-bilt mower with a 5.5HP tecumseh motor, at least i think its 5.5HP. Its running like its getting intermittent spark then it shuts off and will not start again for a long period of time. then as expected it will run for several minutes just fine and then it act like intermittent spark and eventually die again. any ideas? all advice will be greatly appreciated.

 

[Rivets]

Have a new spark plug available and the next time it stops, immediately remove the unit's plug and plug in the new play. Hold the plug against the metal block and have some one pull the starter rope while you watch to see a spark at the plug. If you get no spark, your coil is shorting out and needs to be replaced. Part number 34443D.

 

[SurfMowBear]

Thank You Rivets!
I do appreciate the response. I didnt clarify in the original post that i replaced the spark plug this past april. Could it have gone bad that quickly?