Problem #: 2
Problem: Engine does not start when cold. It cranks normally.
Safety Concerns: Normal care about rotating parts. Wear safety glasses.
Test: Crank engine with choke on. If it does not start remove air cleaner and verify that the choke is closed. Manually try to close choke if needed at carburetor. (The choke is closed with a spring and may erratically stick open). If it starts then this is the problem.
Solution: Try cleaning the choke assembly with carburetor cleaner. If this does not work do this.
Close choke and remove the screws that hold the coke plate to the choke shaft. (Be very careful not to drop the screws in the carb. You might want to put a piece of tape on the choke plate hole) Observe how the choke spring is installed. Remove the choke plate and pull the choke shaft out. Clean the shaft, choke plate, and holes that the shaft when through and reassemble. This problem was erratic and once I manually closed the choke it would be OK for awhile. The next monring it would not close.