Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): gas broblem, sears craftman, plug hole

Question
have sears craftman snowblower,ran fine last year, ran it dry at the end of season.to start it had to put gas in spark plug hole. started up but am unable to move the choke to run position without the motor dying.

Answer
Classic dirty carburetor...even though you drained it.

Have you removed, dis-assembled and cleaned the carb with compressed air from an air compressor.

What is the Sears model number so I can look up your blower?  The model number is on a sticker and will be a long number with a format similar to xxx.xxxxxx.

Let me know.
Eric