Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs always flooded?, valve lapping compound, speed jet

Question
Hi Eric.  Older Briggs on snowblower.  Number is:  190402 8696.  Engine always seem flooded - Even before I try to start.  What could have happened to my carb?  Used to start on 1st or 2nd pull with choke.  Now immediately flooded.  I appreciate any ideas.

Answer
Have you ever rebuilt the carb?  I would rebuilt the carb.  One tip with this carbs is the high speed jet, on the lower half of the carb, it tapered.  Over time this jet can leak.  A tip a good friend showed me many years ago was to grind off the threads of the old jet.  With the threads ground off you can use the old jet as a lapping tool.  Just apply some valve lapping compound (fine) and use the old jet to lap to clean the inside of the carb taper. Make sure you clean all the lapping compound out of the carb with carb cleaner and compressed air. This tip works well and will help prevent leaking around the high speed jet.

Your other option is to shut-off the fuel when you are done using the blower and let the engine die by just running out of gas.  When you need to use the blower again just turn the fuel back on and wait a half a minute to minute to allow the carb to fill with fuel.

Let me know if this helps.
Eric