Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): simplicity 5212.5, needle valve, turning the key

Question
I can't get this to start. I've replaced the magneto, I get spark & gas to the carb. How is the needle valve suppose to work? it has a wire going to it but it doesn't seem to do anything. If I disconnect it the engine still turns over, it causes a "click" when I connect it but when I turn the motor over the needle doesn't retract or anything. should it? I can see because I took the carb. top off. This has been driving me crazy for 2 years. I've had 2 people who repair mowers look @ it and all I get is a I don't know.
Could it be bad plugs? They were replaced 6 months b4 this happened.
Please HELP! Thank you,
Roger

Answer
Your talking about the anit-backfire valve that's on the bowl of the carb I think. It has nothing to do with the needle valve. It blocks off the main fuel circuit from getting fuel after the key is shut off to prevent back firing during shutting down. If you hear it clicking when turning the key on and off then I would assume it's working correctly. If you need further help you'll have to follow my directions, and provide me with the engine maker, model of the engine, and type number........Tom