Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): honda auto choke engine, honda auto, air filter

Question
I have a troy-bilt push mower with a 5.5 160cc Honda. The last time I used it I sharpened blade and then mowed. I pulled mower out today and had some oil under the carb/intake area. I tried to start the mower and it wouldn't. It would start and run with the air filter off but as soon as I put the air filter, on engine quits.I don't know auto chokes either. Please help.

Answer
Chris
When you try to start the mower see if the choke closes. If the choke is not closing or is closed you may be starving for air while the air filter on. What you need to do is check the air filter and spray some carb cleaner in the carb and all around the linkage. The oil under the carb comes from the breather hose. When the intake starves for air it will suck more air from the breather hose causing oil to come out.

Thanks