Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): ? carb problem on a Jacobsen 2 stroke greensmower, stroke engine, fuel flow

Question
I have an older model Jacobsen greensmower with a 2 stroke engine. There is a handle mounted throttle, and a lever on the carb which I assume is the choke control. I have no problem starting the engine, with the choke on full, but after starting, the engine RPM pulses cyclicaly every few seconds. The engine runs fairly smoothly at a  choke lever position slightly shy of full. At any other position, the engine pulses at a higher and lower speed. Thanks for your help!!!!


Answer
Hi Gary,

I suspect a lack of fuel flow to the engine.
Try to keep it running with the choke off, by squirting fuel or starting fluid into the carb intake.  If you can keep it running by adding fuel, then the carb most likely has dirt, debris or gummed fuel inside.
You will need to remove the carb, disassemble it, clean all the small internal openings and blow it out with compressed air.   Probe each and every hole with a small wire.   A carb rebuild kit wouldn't hurt either.  Make sure there is a good flow from the fuel tank also.

A weak carb governer spring sometimes causes cycling of the speed but try the fuel adding test first.   

Let me know how you make out.
Michael