"I have to say, when it dies and you try to start it, it just sounds and smells like it's flooded. I just don't know! Would it smell like gas if it was the ign. module??"
Any time you mash on the gas pedal once or twice and it does NOT start, it would smell of gas. All the gas is evaporating inside the hot intake/engine and it is rising out of the top of the carb or the exhaust as Sharpe mentioned.
From your description of the problem, it sure sounds like a defective ignition module to me. If it happens again with the new module, you can determine if it is ignition related by removing one of the plug wires and inserting a screwdriver into the plug wire boot so it contacts the metal end of the plug wire. Then hold the metal shank of the screwdriver about 1/2 inch away from a metal part on the engine and have someone turn the key and try to start it (no repeated mashing on the gas pedal). Your hand should be on the insulated handle of the screwdriver, unless you enjoy brief zaps!
If there is no spark between the screwdriver shank and the metal part of the engine, the problem is ignition related.
Of course, you should first try this when the engine is running OK so you will recognize a "good" spark, and it will tell you that you are doing the procedure correctly.
One quick plane flight with Turtle in my bag and you would have a house guest that does automotive repair in exchange for driving all of your toys (DO NOT LISTEN TO RON).
Your humble future servant and chauffeur ....