Same problem. Runs on half choke. Just ordered carb rebuild kit and associated gaskets, and new fuel filter. Will post how it runs after I finish the repairs.

I'm having the same problem. I hope somebody out there responds to our problem.

Hi Mike,

The fuel tank is item #23 on page B of teh parts diagram. The part number of the tank is #308675011 and is available from http://www.ereplacementparts.com.

Good luck with your repair!

-Mark

Hi jb,

It sounds to me like your blower is just severely flooded. When an engine becomes so flooded that there is gas coming out of the exhaust it will require some attention to clear it out.

To clear the cylinder and exhaust start by removing the spark plug. Using compressed air from an air compressor blow any fuel off of the spark plug. Now using a nozzle that fits snugly into the spark plug hole on the cylinder, blow air into the cylinder. As you blow the air, slowly pull on the starter rope. Pulling on the starter rope will raise and lower the piston ensuring that the entire cylinder is cleared. Continue to blow air until there is no more fuel coming out of the muffler. Inspect the spark plug. Make sure it is not corroded or covered with carbon. If the plug looks worn or dirt replace it. Reconnect the spark plug boot. The blower should now be ready to start.

Turn on the ignition. Pump the primer bulb about 10 times, until fuel begins to flow through it. Set the choke lever to the choked position. Now attempt to start the blower. Pull on the rope until the engine attempts to start but immediately dies. Now adjust the choke lever to the run position. Pull on the starter rope until the engines starts and runs.

To avoid flooding the engine when starting; don't move the choke lever to the run position until the engine has attempted to fire. After the engine does fire and die, be sure to move the choke lever to the run position and leave it there. If you attempt to start the engine with the choke lever in the choked position after the engine has initially fired and died it will immediately flood the engine. A trick when trying to start a hard starting engine is to hold the throttle open whenever you are pulling the starter rope, the engine will fire easier.

If non of the above solves the problem and the engine continues to flood then there is likely a problem with the carburetor or the ignition.

I hope this helps with your repair!

-Mark