Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Toro Recycler 20017 - Problems Starting, pace system, personal pace

Question
I have a Toro Recycler Personal Pace 20017. I've had it just over two years (two years 1 week). The warranty is officially up and it decides not to start. I've had problems with it for awhile but never took it in for repair because it would usually end up starting.

It was originally having problems starting after already being run for a while. Sometimes it would start right back up... Sometimes it would take 5-10 pulls. I never had problem with cold starts.

I replaced the spark plug and air filter. That didn't help. It wouldn't start. I finally got it to start by spraying some carb spray on the carb. It did keep running. I left it run for a couple minutes.. Then I let go of the bar. Let it sit for like 30 seconds and it started right back up on the first pull. I did this 3 or 4 times.

It doesn't have a choke.

There's no clutch. It's called the "personal pace" system. There is a handle type thing you push in and the wheels engage. The further you push the bar the faster it goes.

Something else odd... The mower is self propelled (back wheels). For some reason it feels like they are locked when the mower isn't running. I haven't had this happen until just last week. Any ideas or do you think the problems could be related?

As far as the engine goes.. Do you think the carburator needs cleaned or something? Thanks very much for any advice.


Answer
Hi Tom,

Since it starts when you add flammable carb cleaner, I suspect a lack of fuel flow to the engine.  The carb most likely has dirt, debris, gummed fuel or water inside.  You will need to remove the carb, disassemble it, clean all the small internal openings and blow it out with compressed air.  
As far as the drive goes, it should be engaged only when the drive bar is held in.  I would check the cable adjustment or look further, into the drive unit itself, looking for anything out of the ordinary.
The two problems may be related but if you had the starting problem before, they may not be.  
There is usually a safety handle that cuts off the spark unless it is depressed.  You could check for spark after it quits or while it is running by moving the lever to different positions.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael