Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears Eager-1 Lawn Mower, eager 1, gravity feed

Question
I read an answer you gave to someone who said his mower would start and run for about 5-seconds and then stop.  You said a carburetor rebuild is probably the answer because of varnish etc.  Mine is doing the same.  However, it also appears that gas is not getting into the float bowl.  I've taken it apart, ran a paper clip into the ports and blown threw it.  Still no gas gets to the bowl. The gas line is clear.  Will the the engine create a vacuum to "suck" the gas into the bowl or is there a fuel pump?  I don't think there is.  Is there another possible culprit or do you still think the carb rebuild is the answer??

Answer
Hello Patrick:

In the Instruction File I made for Cleaning and Rebuilding Carburetors, I Say First Off to Make Sure the Gas is Free Flowing to the Carburetor (if Applicable). If the Engine Does Not have a Fuel Pump, then the System is Gravity Feed and the Gas should Free Flow when the Gas Line is Removed from the Carburetor Inlet Port. If the Engine Does have a Fuel Pump, then you have to Check the Fuel Pump. Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine or the Mower Model Numbers, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. From your Description is Sounds like there is a Fuel Pump or the Gas Tank Outlet Port and Gas Line to the Carburetor is Restricted and is Stopping the Gas Flow to the Carburetor. I can Better Answer this Question when I Recieve the Model Numbers. Thanks.

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John