Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): air filter, filter cap, fuel flow

Question
i have a mastercut walk behind, can,t get it to run, had the carb off two or three times now cleaned it  two or three times ,the primer is not pumping the gas through,the air filter cap is gone do i need that for it to pump gas

Answer
Hi Wayne,

If fuel doesn't prime when you push the primer then either the primer is torn or there is a clog somewhere.  Trace the fuel path from the tank to the carb.  If a good flow there, then the problem must be in the carb.  Re-check it and probe each and every opening with a small wire.  I have had to re-do a carb several times, to find that I missed just one small hole.  

The air filter cover should not affect the fuel flow.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael