The #1 problem with most repairs I do are dirty, clogged carburetors. Today’s fuel begins going stale in as little three months. The ethanol mixed in with gasoline attracts moisture very quickly which dilutes the fuel and causes water build up at the bottom of the gas tank. This causes hard or non starting issues. As the fuel evaporates it leaves behind a thick, sticky varnish which clogs all the tiny passageways within the carburetor. The best way to avoid this issue is to use a fuel stabilizer mixed into fresh gasoline. Run the machine every few months to use the small amount of fuel that’s been sitting inside the carburetor bowl. If the machine is going to sit unused for an extended period of time it’s a good idea to drain the fuel tank and carburetor completely.