Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Missing Carb plug??, sears craftsmen, carburetor body

Question
Sears Craftsmen lawn tractor.  Engine mdl:42E707, Type: 2275E1, Code: 0105075A.  Carb # 692812,  27-531-1110.

The engine started running real rough while cutting the grass.  Choking smoothed it out.  Obviously starving for fuel.  Did the usual fuel checks, new fuel filter. started to rebuild the carb when noticed an orfice about 3/8 inch in diameter just below the fuel pump housing.   I could see into the venturi via a very narrow slot.   Obviously the mixture slot.  Putting the carb back on the engine and running the motor with my finger over the orfice allowed the engine to run smoothly.  Needless to say, there should be a plug or something to cover this orfice.  The carb kit (693503) did not have any plug in it.

Would appreciate a source for this plug or whatever goes in there.  The local dealer knew nothing about this orfice, plug, or about that carb for that matter.

thanks, Peter

Answer
Hello Peter:


From your Description and from Looking at the Breakdown of the Carburetor it Sounds like the Brass Metering Shaft has been Sucked Into the Engine. On these Carburetors they are a Part of the Carburetor Body. The Are Installed at the Factory and are Not Designed for Removal or Replacement. It is Rare for this to Happen, but Over the Years I have Seen this Happen 3 Times Since these Carburetor came on the Market. I Suggest Replacing the Carburetor. You can Purchase the Carburetor Body Itself, if it is Available. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

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