Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda H1011 Engine Problems, air filter assembly, head gasket

Question
Hello Fred.  I am trying to get a Honda H1011 to run.  I had all the symptoms that Tom had in the 9/9/07 answer from John Bridgers Sr.  I took the carb off, tore it down and soaked in over night.  I replaced all the gaskets, fuel filter and hose, and put it back together after blowing compressed air throughout the carb.(I did not replace the float).  The engine does not start and there is only small backfires (white foggy looking smoke coming out of the carb.).  The engine did run before I cleaned the carb.  There are not many adjustments, so I don't know where to go from here.  Your help is appreciated.
Thank you.

Answer
Backfire through the carburetor usually indicates improper timing.  The first thing to check is the flywheel key be sure it is not sheared or partially sheared inspect flywheel for cracks and inspect the crankshaft where the key inserts.  From there check valve clearance and head gasket integrity.  When you say you replaced gaskets did you also replace the needle and seat in carburetor also when you disassemble it did you remove the Main nozzle and adjustments screws.  If not remove the carburetor disassemble it and clean all air and fuel passages with a wire from a wire tie.  Blowout passages with carb cleaner or compressed air.  Do not soak carburetor and carburetor cleaner if varnish accumulation is that bad you would have to replace the carburetor.  Reassemble carburetor using new kit and amount using new mounting gaskets install adjustments screws and make initial adjustments attached throttle and choke cables and air filter assembly start the engine and let it come up to operating temperature make final adjustments on adjustments screws you may have to remove the air cleaner assembly to do this.  I hope this information helps if you need more assistance please contact us again.