Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): loose venturi, vertical shaft, spec numbers

Question
QUESTION: John. I have retired from 42 years as the owner of Tate's Auto Service and I specialized in carburetion. However, I do not claim to be an expert on Briggs Carbs and that is what brings me to you! On a Briggs 8 horse vertical shaft, 30 years old, I noticed when removing the air emulsion tube and main high-speed jet that the venturi was loose. What gave me that clue was the tip of the main jet tube was bright and shiny where the venturi had rubbed it from vibration. The only symptom/problem is an sightly erratic idle that sounds like a lean misfire about every two seconds. Am I on the right track and can this loose venturi be repaired (i.e. JB Weld).? Have any ideas?

ANSWER: Hello Bill:

You are Correct. The Cause for the Miss at Idle is a Loose Venturi. Usually I Suggest Replacing the Carburetor. I have Tried Many Ways to Repair this Problem and have Always Ended up Replacing the Carburetor. Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the reply John. I will attempt to repair this carburetor and if I find a way to fix it I will try to let you know the results. This old mower is to be used on the family farm and we don't want to put any money in it. No need to reply. Thanks, Bill

Answer
Hello Again Bill:

Thanks. I Appreciate Any Input you May Find about Repairing this Problem. Anything Cheaper than Replacing the Carburetor will be a Great Help to me and Many Others that have the Same Problem. Till Next Time. May All Your Mechanical Problems be SMALL ONES and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks Again.

Best Wishes and Good Luck

Respectfully

John