Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh Carburator problem, adjustment screws, carb adjustments

Question
I have a 15 year old Sears Mower Mod 917373680 S/N 081993M269977, 5.3 HP.  It has a float carb, with no carb adjustments.  The only way I can keep it running is to manually depress and hold the prme button. or remove the air filter and cover about 3/4 of the intake opening. Help.
Doug

Answer
Doug, provided you have a good fuel supply to the carburetor, then your in need of a crab rebuild. It is without doubt starving for fuel. Either the main jet, main jet circuit, or the needle and seat are to blame within the carb. Carburetor needs to be removed, soaked in a parts cleaning solution after being disassembled, when removing any adjustment screws make sure you count the amount of turns in to be able to set them close enough to start the engine afterwards and then to fine adjust, and then determine if all or any fuel circuits are clogged or blocked. After making sure all passages are open you must then replace the needle and seat. Adjust the float by making sure when upside down the float is basically level, in comparison to the carb body, if an adjustment is needed you must gently bend the tab on the float when the float needle clip connects. Change all gaskets, remount and fine adjustment..........Tom