Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 5 hp briggs wont start without starter fluid, willow springs nc, carburetor body

Question
I have a kids go cart with a 5 hp engine.  To get it started I have to squirt 1 shot of starting fluid into the air breather when motor is cold or when you let it sit for a few minutes after riding it.  If you just cut it off with the kill switch usually it will start right back. It is kind of like the carb can't pull the gas up the pickup tube which sits down into the gas tank.  Vacuum leak, low compression, valve problem?  It seams to have good power when running and doesn't smoke.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks, Tim Willow Springs NC

Answer
Hello Timothy:

Well, First Hello to NC, My Home State. Wilson, NC. OK. You Say it Runs Well and Usually will Restart if Started within a Minute or Two but Not if 5 Minutes or so. Most Likely the Carburetor Requires a Diaphragm for the Pulse Pump. If this is the Carburetor that is Mounted to the Tank, then there is a Pump that is Vacuum and Spring Operated. I Suggest  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 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John