Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Victa lawnmower, float bowl, youtube

Question
Hi there, I have a Victa Concept 38 and the only way to get it started is to pump the primer in excess of 20 times (as opposed to the 5 times usually required). Once this is done the mower will start but it will only run for a few seconds before dying. However, if the primer is continually pushed the engine will keep running. Obviously this isn't practical for lawn-mowing purposes. Can you help?

Answer
Classic dirty carburetor.  I'm not sure which engine/carb you have but there are several videos on YouTube showing how to clean lawnmower carburetors.

All you need are some basic hand tools and an air compressor.  If you have a float style carburetor, you can try removing the float bowl nut located on the bottom of the carburetor and draining the carburetor petrol.  Make sure the hole in the float bowl nut is clean.  If draining the carb petrol does not solve the problem you will need to clean the carb.

Eric