Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): snowblower problems, rough sketch, viton rubber

Question
I have recently aquired a 3 speed, power propelled, sears II, Craftsman snow blower with a 5.5 hp motor. I worked on it a little and found the reason it was being given away due to a cracked gas line which I have since replaced.  Now the problem is that when I start it I cannot move it from choke to running normal without the motor dieing.  Other than that it seems okay.  Do you think this is a problem that I can address?  Or should I pay a lawnmower repair shop to do the work?
Thanks
Bob

Answer
Most likely the carburetor is dirty.  Cleaning the carburetor isn't very difficult with the right tools...most importantly an air compressor.

Remove the carburetor paying close attention to how the linkages are connected and routed.  I usually mark with holes the linkages go in and draw a rough sketch of the linkage routing.

Once removed, disassemble the carburetor and clean with compressed air and carburetor cleaner.  Be careful not to use too much air pressure on the inlet needlt area...the orfice the fuel line is connected to.  The inlet needle seat is a small viton/rubber piece which could fly out of the hole if too much pressure is used.

Blow out all the other carburetor orfices with compressed air.  Now just put it back together.  The float normally doesn't have to be adjusted on most carburetors...it's not super critical.

Let me know if you have any other questions.
Eric