Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Go cart, water in the fuel, new spark

Question
I bought a go-cart for my boys.  It has a Honda, 5 hrsp engine.  It ran well, but seemed to cut out when they went around a corner.  I thought it might be a safety feature.  However, one day it just quit running.  Now it won't start.  I disconnected wires to the ignition switch, thinking it may be shorting out.  That's not the problem.  It seems to be getting fuel.  I have put in a new spark plug.  I checked the plug and it isn't wet, but the fuel is getting up to the engine.  What might be the problem?  Thanks.

Dawn  

Answer
Hi Dawn,

You will need to determine if the problem is a lack of spark or a lack of fuel flow.  Right after it quits, 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.  

Another possibility if the problem is fuel related: Check 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