Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawnmower flooding, stroke engine, cycle oil

Question
i have a toro model 20684 2 cycle oil gas mix type purchased 1985 ran  for 12 years regular lawn and now  last 7 years just use to mop up what tractor not able to get. total age 19 years.

tough to almost no starting. when i choke it and try to start i can smell gas...spark new, air filter ok....carberator neverserviced...spark appears soaked in gas and oil?  when able to get it running engine does not sound good..lost its pep...any ideas would help?

Answer
Hi Bob,

My first reaction is that you have gotten all, if not more than the life expected out of a 2 stroke engine.  Unless you find an easy fix, I wouldn't think it would be worth the expense to repair it.  You could try closing the carb jets a little, to see if less fuel will help.  If no better, you could rebuild the carb.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael