Lawnmower Repair - I have a fouled fuel system.?

Question

I have an old lawnmower, which was running until recently. I suspect that the fuel system is gummed up or clogged, as if I put a little gas in the carburetor, it starts for a few seconds just fine. I put some heet and carb cleaner intro it and a dark red substance comes out of the gas tank, but when filled with gas still won't start. Does anyone have any ideas for cleaning out the fuel system without taking it apart.

Answer 1

taking a lawnmower carb apart is a 15 minute job,what are you trying to avoid ?

Answer 2

Make sure the choke is releasing on starting.  One way of trying to clean the fuel system is to turn the lawn mower up side down and let all the gas drain backwards.  Best to do over night.  In doing this, don't forget to drain the oil and use a pan to catch the waste material (environment concern).   In restarting, clean spark plug, refill oil and use fresh gas (may half to initially start with squirt of starter fluid). If above fails, carburetor needs to be overhauled. While turned over, now is time to sharpen the blade.