Following up on Bob and Phil's suggestios:
1. Emptied fuel tank, cleaned and refilled with gas.
2. Removed carburetor, cleaned and blew fine mesh filter.
3. Replaced joint seal and diaphragm.
4. Engine starts and dies unless priming is maintained manually (tough)
Q. It seems fuel is not being pulled by diaphragm. Since diaphragm is actuated by engine vacuum could there be a leak? Where?
Rubber gasket seems to be OK.
Check that the rubber pipe between the engine crankcase (the take off is usually around the tappet cover) and the carburettor. The vacuum required for the carb to pump fuel is controlled by this pipe.
John
June 2008
Automatic Answer
While you wait for answers, we may have found some information which could help you.
howtomendit.com for free repair help, information and advice.
Try fixfault.com to fix lawn mowers.