Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawnmower will on run without air filter, air compressor, carburetor

Question
Hi Eric

My Mastercraft lawnmower with a techemec motor will only run without the air filter installed. In fact with only the cover for the air filter in place the engine starts to run poorly and begin to stall. Do you have any suggestions.

Thanks

Todd

Answer
Classic dirty carburetor.  Do you have an air compressor so you can blow air through all the carburetor orfices?

There are lots of videos on You Tube showing how to clean Tecumseh carbs.

I would recommend replacing the inlet needle, inlet needle seat, and float bowl gasket.

Take several digital pictures are you remove and dis-assemble the carb so you know how it goes back together and how to connect the throttle links.

Very simple carb but you do need an air compressor to clean it.

Eric