Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): carb problems, murray riding mower, internal passages

Question
I have a Murray riding mower with a Tecumseh 10hp motor, model# TVM 220. It had set for about a year when I bought it. I took the carb off and cleaned it and made sure the main jet holes were clear, but it still will not run smooth unless the choke is half way out. I put in a new spark plug also. There is plenty of gas in the bowl and the air filter is clean. There is a small screw in jet in the side of the carb. I took it out and made sure the passage ways were clear. It seems to screw in all the way before seating. Any suggestions?

Answer
Hello Randy:

Remove, Disassembled and Soak Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner (I Use Gunk). Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air and Install a New Kit if Required. If the Carburetor is Not Soaked Overnight, then it is Not Clean. There are Internal Passages that Can Not be Cleaned Unless the Carburetor is Soaked. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the T. Then Select Tecumseh. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Enter the Model Numbers. Then Select your Model and Download the File for Online Viewing. Since this is a Tecumdseh Engine, I have 2 PDF Site Addys that May Assist you Also. They are; 1- http://www.tecumsehpower.com/CustomerService/BSI.pdf and 2- http://www.cpdonline.com/692509.pdf Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John