Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Ryobi Lawnmower, starter fluid, model numbers

Question
A friend of mine has a Ryobi 6.5 horsepower lawnmower, model # 96116000200 Serial # 032205m 037069. When we first started the mower this season, it ran fine for a while then started running a little slugishly. I changed the oil, made sure it had fresh gas, and checked the spark plug to make sure everything was in working order. Now the mower will not start at all. It will not even take a prime and start. I'm not sure what is going on with it. I have read some of your answers to previous questions and I trust your opinion on this. Please any help you can give will be greatly appreciated. Thanks Jerry.

Answer
 Hello Jerry:

 Does the Engine have Fire at the Spark Plug? What Happens if you Spray Starter Fluid or Pour a Small Amount of Gas (2 Tablespoons) into the Carburetor Throat and Try to Start the Engine? Does it Start and Quit? If Yes, then Remove, Disassemble and Soak the Carburetor Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner. Then Blow Out the Passages and Install New Kit. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Engine Manual and Better Assist you. Hope this Helps. I am Here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John