Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): carburetor, Tecumseh TVS90, float bowl, push mower

Question
My push mower has a Tecumseh TVS90 3.2 HP 4 cycle engine. The engine starts and runs great for a few seconds if I spray starting fluid or gas into the carb, and then it shuts off. It appears that no gas is getting past the carb. The float bowl is full though. Do I need to replace the needle/seat? Also, the priming bulb seems to do nothing when I push it. Is that related to the problem? I ordered a carb repair kit.  

Answer
 Hello Harry:

 If the Primer Bulb has A Pin Hole or is Dry Rotted the Engine cant Get Gas because it Draws Air through the Primer Bulb. Place a Piece of Duct Tape over the Bulb (make sure no air can be Drawn by the Tape) and Try to Start the Engine by Priming it the Way you have been. If it Starts and Continues to Run, then Replace the Bulb. If it Runs and Quits, then Overhaul the Carb and Replace the Bulb too. Blow all Ports and Passages Out with Compressed Air. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John