Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Wont start up, gas tank, fuel flow

Question
I have an old lawn mower about 10 yrs old The problem was it would start up but cut off shortly after so I checked the air filter it was not that dirty and empty the gas tank (by tilting it over) because I left it outside in the rain partially covered but now it won't start since I tilted it over. Have I damaged my old lawn mower?

Answer
Hi Tee,

By tipping it over, you may have gotten oil into places where it shouldn't be.  Remove the spark plug and pull it over to clear out the cylinder.  When you do get it running, it will smoke a bit but the excess should burn off.  As to the no starting condition, you will need to determine if the problem is a lack of spark or a lack of fuel flow.  Remove the spark plug, reconnect the wire and lay it against the engine head.  Pull the engine over and watch for spark at the plug's electrode.

If good, then try to start it while squirting fuel or starting fluid into the carb intake.  If it starts and you can keep it running by adding fuel, then the carb most likely has dirt, debris or gummed fuel inside.   
You will need to remove the carb, disassemble it, clean all the small internal openings and blow it out with compressed air.   Probe each and every hole with a
small wire.   Adding a carb rebuild kit wouldn't hurt either.  

Let me know how you make out.
Michael