Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Homelite Zip Start trimmer model UT 20772, release swings, carburetor problems

Question
QUESTION: S/N MB 1442920, Family YH2X.0254RA - I have trouble starting.  Even using starter fluid doesn't seem to work; won't even try to start.  Eventually, after a lot of pulls, it will start.  Runs well after starting.  I have spark.  I have re-set spark module about 2 paper thicknesses from flywheel.  Any ideas?

ANSWER: Ray
How is the Fuel to oil mixture you may have some gumming up in the carb.I would think that the carb needs taken apart and cleaned and re built.Also you may some valve problems with this engine.
Thanks


BTW ,if you put a little fuel in the spark plug hole and the engine runs and dies ,it's fuel related issue

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QUESTION: I tried starting fluid in spark plug hole.  If it ran and died, I would agree that it was fuel.  Even the starting fluid does not cause it to run and die.  I keep pulling on the starter and eventually, it will fire and run.

Answer
Ray

You have carburetor problems for sure. I woulkd think about getting a new carb or rebuilding that one.Nowadays, a lot of mower/equipment is using OHV (OverHead Valve) style engines. This in itself causes many starting troubles. These engine use a compression release on the camshaft to allow for easy starting. Once the engine has started and reaches a speed of over 700 rpm, the weight on the compression release swings out and allows the engine to gain full compression and full power. After awhile, the valve lash/clearance begins to widen and the first thing that goes wrong is the compression release doesn't work properly causing the engine to drag which may sound to some as a dead or dying battery. I'm sure there are untold thousands of people that have replaced batteries, solenoids, starters, switches, etc., only to find themselves going to a repair shop and letting a trained mechanic do what is a simple maintenance adjustment.
Problem: Engine will not start or is hard to start.
Possible causes:

Fuel tank is empty or shutoff valve is closed, or fuel line or fuel tank cap vent is clogged.
There is water in the fuel.
Carburetor is overchoked.
Carburetor is improperly adjusted or needs service.
Ignition system or its wiring is defective or ignition switch is off.
Deadman or other cutoff switch is open or defective.
Spark plug is fouled, improperly gapped, or damaged.
Engine compression is poor.