Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere 318 running problems, electric fuel pump, john deere 318

Question
I just purchased this mower last summer (model M00318x22350), I have had problems with the fuel system. It has an Onan, model B43G, spec GA018/4060B, s/n j823628888 motor.  The previous owner put a new float in, it used to surge at an idle and fuel would come out the tubes on the top of the carb into the venturi.  Recently it will only run with the choke on 2/3.  I had a couple times when it wouldn't start at all, so I blew into the gas tank and fuel leaked at the inline fuel reserve switch, so I replaced all the fuel lines and bypassed the reserve switch completely.  I removed the fuel pump and cleaned it and installed a new vacuum hose on it.  I put a new filter between the carb and pump and it doesn't appear to fill up, I don't know how much pressure the pump should have.  I took off the top of the carb and cleaned what I could get to (carb doesn't come off readily?). A new fuel pump is over $70 so I hate to spend that if that is not the problem.  thanks

Answer
Hello Roger:

All Carburetor Engines Use a 2 to 4 PSI (Usually a Vacuum Type Fuel Pump) or 5 to 7 (Usually an Electric Fuel Pump) PSI Fuel Pump. Due to the Surge at Idle and Hard to Start, I Suggest you  **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.** The Fuel Filter No Filling Up with Fuel can be the Carburetor Bowl Vent is Clogged and Not Venting the Bowl. Once the Carburetor is Soaked and Cleaned, this Problem Should be Corrected. 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

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Respectfully

John