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

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
Robert
being that the mower sat for a couple of years the fuel gummed up in the tank and in the carb. So when you started it the gunk started to break up  and eventually it got lodge in the ports and in the float passages and idle port and so on.When you prime the carb all you are doing is squirting fuel down the throat so it can start once it starts the carb takes over. Well when everything is clogged it wont run. I would replace the carburetor. If you wanted  to use a kit to rebuild it (I think there may not be one)is not all that easy. The replacement carbs are around $55.00 plus shipping of $6.00 to $7.00 depending on your residence.We sell them on our web site. at

www.gbelect.net

The part # is 640020B