Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): turf-till rototiller, carburetor body, adjustment screws

Question
We just bought a used rototiller that hasn't been started for a while. We have
took out the old gas put new in, added oil, changed the spark plug, and used
quick-start but it just doesn't turn over. Can you give us some suggestions on
what to do next? Thanks

Answer
Hello Paul:

You have Covered the Basics. Change and Oil the Air Filter if it is the Sponge Type Filter. Soak the Filter in Oil and then Squeeze the Excess Oil Out. Then Use a Lint Free Rag and Finish Squeezing the Remainder of the Oil from the Filter. Install Filter. If this Unit has Not been Operated in a Long While, then you May have to Clean the Carburetor Just to get it to Run.  **Remove, Disassemble and Soak the Carburetor Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner (I Use Gunk). I have Found that Most People can Use a Breakdown/IPL and Disassemble the Carburetor Enough for Proper Cleaning. You Only have to Remove the Bowl (if Applicable), Float Pin (if Applicable), Float (if Applicable)  and Needle Valve and Any Adjustment Screws that Go Into the Carburetor Body. The Welch Plugs Do Not have to be Removed. Then Soak the Carburetor Body and Parts in a 1 Gallon Can of Gunk Carburetor Cleaner Overnight. The Can has a Parts Tray Inside it for the Small Parts. Once the Carburetor and Parts are in the Cleaner, you can Replace the Lid for Safety and to Prevent Accidental Spillage. Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air. Install New Parts if Required.** 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. The Engine Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. Check the Gear Box Lubricant Also. Most Gear Boxes Use 80W90 Gear Oil. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Unit, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. 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