Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda V-twin run problem, petroleum product, key switch

Question
I have a Raider 10000 welding machine which is powered by a Honda 620K1 V-twin.  It had sat for some time.  Tried to start it and it would only run by pouring gas in the carb.  It of course has a vacuum operated fuel pump and a fuel cut off solenoid.  How do you check the pump and the solenoid?  What does the solenoid do and is it more likely to be the problem?

Answer
BD
You may have a gunked up carburetor.Having a unit sit for a long time is a problem with the fuel as the fuel we use today is using methanol and alcohol and both of them evaporate and leave behind a residual of a petroleum product.The fuel solenoid has 2 uses #1 to open and close the fuel shut off to prevent anti knocking and keeping it from back firing.To check the solenoid turn the key switch on do not start the engine,you should a clicking noise,if you can you can disconnect the wire to the solenoid and check for 12 volts to ground.To check the pump unhook the fuel line going to the carb crank the engine you should see fuel spurting out of the end,I would remove the spark plug to prevent starting and cover the plug wire so it does not spark.