Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs and Stratton Accelerating Problem, briggs and stratton, water in the fuel

Question
I have a gocart with a fun power model 136212 briggs and stratton 5hp engine. it has been sitting outside for about 5 years. recently i tried to start it and it will start and idle, but when i try to accelerate the engine rpm goes way down, if i hold the accelerator down the engine will die. i have tried to clean the carb, replace the spark plug, and put engine restore in the gas. now only some times i can get it to run at full rpm. please try to help.

Ric C.

Answer
Hi Ric,

Look into the carb inlet and check the choke plate for proper close and open positions.
If you haven't, drain the fuel from the carb float bowl and fuel tank.  Water in the fuel may be the problem.
If still no good, then try to keep it running while squirting fuel or starting fluid into the carb intake.  If it runs at full power, 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.  A carb rebuild kit wouldn't hurt either.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael