Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda GC160 Engine Issue, honda gc160, squirt bottle

Question
Hello,

I have a Honda GC160 on a sear rototiller. It has given me no problems for 6 years. Starting last year, the engine will start and run perfectly for around 30 seconds then die out. When i restart, it pops and fires out through carb and surges then dies out again. I thought it was a valve adjustment and readjusted to .006 (IN) and .008 (EX). I also disassembled and cleaned out carb but did not soak it. I don't know where to go next based on the fact that it will run perfectly for 30 seconds. Doesn't that say that all systems are go? Do you have any advice?

Thanks,

Chris

Answer
Use a small squirt bottle filled with fresh gas to prime the engine.  Remove the engine air filter and start it.  You should be able to keep it running by squirting fuel directly into the carb.

If the engine continues to run while priming then you know you have a fuel issue.

Eric