Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Gas leaking from trimmer, reed valves, diaphragms

Question
Hello,

I was having trouble keeping my Poulan Pro trimmer idling, so I thought maybe the air filter was dirty. I took it off to check and see if the engine would idle without it, and I noticed gas squirting out of the carburetor every time I pulled the start cord.

What could be wrong with it?

Thanks

Answer
Have you rebuilt the carb?  Old carb diaphragms get stiff and brittle no longer operating properly.

Many Poulan products will have a very fine mist of fuel coming from the carbs when running.  They use cheap reed valves, if any at all, which can cause the fuel mist.

How old is the trimmer and what is the model number?

Eric