Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman 32cc weedeater, craftsman weedwacker, carburetor body

Question
I have a Craftsman Weedwacker with a 32cc engine. It cranks easily and will run at idle on 1/2 choke for 5 seconds or so then die. If I squeeze the gas trigger it dies instantly. The spark plug is new and clean, gas is fresh and mixed per specs. I cleaned the carb with carb cleaner and still it does the same. The fuel filter in the gas tank came loose last summer. My wife (bless those little hands) trimmed the split line and pushed the filter back into it. Other than that nothing has been done to it. It's only 2 years old and it stored inside and I really don't want to buy a new one....please help.

Answer
Hello Steven:

Remove the Muffler and Inspect the Exhaust Port for Carbon Blocking the Exhaust Port. Check the Muffler and Spark Arrestor Screen (in the muffler) for Blockage Also. If the Exhaust is Clear, then  **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.** To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. 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