Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): hard to start mower, briggs and stratton, high altitude

Question
Hi, I recently bought a Toro GTS 450 Recycler 2 Model # 20434.  the problem I have is I just had it tuned up and I still have the hardest time getting it started.  I have to try about 20 - 30 times before it will start.  However, once it starts, it starts easily the rest of the time using it.  However, after sitting a few days, back to square one of yanking on the cord 20-30 times to get it to start.  any clue why this is?  or how to fix it?  also the pull cord is frayed, so it looks like I will need to replace that too soon, any clue how I do that?  Thank you for your time.
Doug

Answer
Hello Doug:

This Mower Should Not be That Hard to Start. Usually 3 to 4 Pulls and it Should be Running. Has the Carburetor Ever Been Cleaned and Rebuilt? Has the Idle Air Adjustment Been Turned? Is this Mower Used at a High Altitude? There are 2 Carburetor Bowl Screws for this Carburetor. One is for High Altitude. I Suggest you Remove, Disassemble and Soak the Carburetor Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner (I use Gunk). Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air. Install a New Kit if Required. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the B. Then Select Briggs and Stratton. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Select the File #12.  Then Select the Folder #122700. This is the Engine on your Mower. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let Me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully  

John