Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Toro Snowthrower wont start, accidental spillage, adjustment screws

Question
I have a S200 snowthrower that won't start. It has a good spark. It would start with starting fluid and then die  after 3 seconds. I sprayed it out with carb cleaner, put a new needle and seat and diaphragm in but it still won't start. What am I doing wrong?    Thanks

Answer
Hello Jim:

Spray Cleaners will Not Usually Clean a Small Engine Carburetor. You Need to Clean the Carburetor Properly. Locate the 5 or 6 Digit Toro Model Number. Now, You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower at this Site Addy, https://lookup3.toro.com/partdex/default.cfm and Select Start Parts Viewer. Now Enter the Model Numbers. Now Select View Assembly Drawings. Usually a Breakdown of the Engine and Carburetor is All you Require to have as a Reference to Remove and Clean the Carburetor. If you DO Hit a Snag or Just Require More Detailed Instructions, Do Not Hesitate to Ask, Please. You can View a Breakdown of this Equipment at this Site Addy; http://www.homelite.com/parts/index.htm and Select Parts/Service at left, then Select Go to Homelite Parts Store. Then Follow the Instructions to Get to the Breakdown for this Unit. Then Select the Carburetor File to See the Carburetor in Breakdown for Disassembly and Cleaning. **REMEMBER You Do Not have to Remove the Welch Plugs. The Following is the Instructions for Proper Carburetor Cleaning.  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, Float Pin, 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. 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. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. 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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John