Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Bolens Edger 3.5 HP Surging, gas edger, vertical shaft

Question
I bought a 2nd hand Bolens MTD gas edger (Model # 25B-550A765, Serial # 1A265KA0055) with a 3.5 HP vertical shaft B&S engine.  The engine will not idle smoothly and surges fast and slow.  Can you advise what may be causing this?  What is the procedure to adjust the carburetor?  

Answer
Most surging is caused by a dirty carburetor.  Have you removed, dis-assembled and cleaned the carburetor with compressed air from an air compressor?

The link below covers carburetor adjustment:

http://engines.myfaqcenter.com/Answer.aspx?p_faqid=3353&body_0$tbKeyword=carbure... adjust

Try adjusting the carb first but if performace does not improve you will have to clean the carb.

Eric