Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn mower starts, runs for a second, then turns off, eager 1 engine, carburetor body

Question
Craftsman Model number 917 376871 with the Eager-1 Engine
Engine Model 143.966006
Engine Family STP207UIGIRA

I got this mower from my brother in law who said it worked fine the last time he used it.  It was sitting in his garage for a couple years.  When i got it to my house the tank was empty so i added the gas he gave me (which i assume is old).

it started up with a few pulls and ran fine for about 5-10 minutes, then i turned it off.

I emptied the gas, then cleaned it, cleaned the air filter, changed the oil (SAE30), and sharpened the blade.  I tilted it alot during this process.

Now, I added some gas and it starts, runs for about 1-2 seconds then turns off.  As if it burns the gas from pumping the little rubber button, then when that runs out it doesn't suck in fuel and just turns off.

i removed the spark plug and pull pulled the cord a couple times, i could hear the little ticking spark, but couldn't actually see it because i couldn't hold it to look while pulling the cord.

There was black (wet) gunk on the spark plug so i cleaned it with a wire brush and paper towel.

I plan to buy new a spark plug, new air filter, and fresh gas and try it again.

I'm wondering why did it work fine until i tilted it/cleaned it?  what am i doing wrong?

Should i get carburator cleaner and take apart/clean the carb?  i am inexperienced and didn't want to tinker with the carb.

What is your advice?  thanks

Answer
Hello Robert:

This is a Common Problem.  **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.** Since this is a Tecumseh Engine, I have a PDF Site Addy that May Assist you Also. http://www.tecumsehpower.com/CustomerService/BSI.pdf  . You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the T. Then Select Tecumseh. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Enter the Model Numbers. Then Select your Model and Download the File for Online Viewing. If the Carburetor is a Tillotson Carburetor (common on Tecumseh Engines), You can View a Breakdown of the Carburetor at this Site Addy http://www.tillotson.ie/ and Download the Flash Player. Then Enter the Site. Now Select Tech Info. Now Select Service Manuals from the Drop Down List Under the Tech Info Tab. Your Carburetor should be in the HU or the HS Series Manual. 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