Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 21 hp Huskee wont start, water in the fuel, huskee

Question
I have went through the entire engine and can get the mower to fire briefly on starting fluid but can not seem to get any gas to the carburetor.  I would like to know if my mower has a fuel pump or some other mechanism to pull gas from the tank?  I have cleaned the fuel filter and lines, they are clear.  Does the carburetor use some sort of suction to siphon gas out of the tank therefore if fuel lines are not hooked to the carb then there is no gas and if lines are hooked up ant there is no gas then carb is dirty?  thanks Phil

Answer
Hi Phil,

If there is a fuel pump, you should be able to see it,  located inline between the fuel tank and the carb.  You can test fuel flow by disconnecting the fuel line at the carb inlet while cranking the engine over.  If you have good flow at that point, 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.  

Another area to check is the gas cap to make sure it is venting and not causing a vacuum in the tank.  Also check for water in the fuel.  

Let me know how you make out.
Michael