Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): briggs 42e707, hose clamps, vacuum line

Question
John, I have a Murray with Briggs 2cyl 42e707. It  had ran out of gas in the back yard and I could not push it up the hill. Meanwhile it came a gulley washer and when I filled it with gas it would not start. I had to have it towed up the hill to the front yard where I've worked on it off and an for a month.  By smell I figured somehow either the gas was bad or water in the carb/fuel tank.  So I emptied the tank and bowl and refilled with fresh gas. If I open the carb and fill the bowl, it will start and run until the bowl is empty.  If I apply pressure on the fuel tank (by blowing) gas runs out the bottom of the fuel pump. So I thought the FP was broken and got a repair kit. Still nothing.  I've concluded it's not getting gas into the  carb.  I boiled out the carb base in case there was any blockage.  The gas comes in from the bottom and the vacuum line in the side.  If it needs primed, why would it run after running out of gas before??? How would you prime it?
Thanks
Gary

Answer
Hello Gary:

Try Applying Slight Air Pressure to the Tank with the Gas Line Off at the Pump. Once Gas is Running Out of the Line at the Pump, Replace the Line on the Pump and Keeping the Pressure in the Tank Try Starting the Engine. If the Engine Does Not Start and Operate Properly, then Check the Vacuum Line to the Pump for Leaks and Replace the Spring Style Hose Clamps with the Screw Style Hose Clamps. There May be a Vacuum Leak Around the Clamps that is Causing the Pump Not to Operate Properly. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Mower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. 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