Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Simplicy snowblower, carburetor body, sediment bowl

Question
hello,  i have a simplicy snowblower it is a snow away 8 about 6 years old.  i bought it used this summer, when i bought it, it in june it started no problem.  when i went to start it after our first good snow fall it would not start.  it is getting a spark, and it puts out a small amount of smoke but will not run. the best it did was one little sputter.  i tried replacing the gas (and added dry gas in case of water) a new spark plug even put a touch of gas in the cylinder and i took the sediment bowl off and cleaned it out.  in the bottom of the sediment bowl was some very fine black "stuff" and a small amount of ice.  do you have any ideas on how to get it running?  i have a long driveway and do not want to shovel with a snowblower in the garage.  thank your for help.  it is greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hello Fred:

From your Description, it Sounds Like the Carburetor is Dirty.  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. Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. 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 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John