Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 4HP Mariner Outboard Motor, mariner outboard motor, oil mixture

Question
It's a 1995, 4HP, single cyclinder, uses 50:1 gas/oil mixture.  All of a sudden, it only runs with the choke fully closed.  If I try to open the choke to the "run" position, the engine races and then dies.  Start OK after I wait for 5 seconds. I've replaced the fuel and fuel filter-confirmed that fuel is getting to the carburetor.  

Answer
Hi Larry,

Even though you are getting fuel to the carb, it sounds like sufficiant fuel is not getting to the engine.
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