- check the choke; it should be closed at cold start, and slowly open after the engine is cranked.
- check that the fuel pump activates when the key is turned to the ON position.
Clean the choke and throttle plates and their bushings w/carb cleaner and then oil bushings and linkages w/light oil. Also clean the flame arrestor. Make sure the choke setting is correct and it closes when starting and opens slightly upon start. Don't overtighten the nut on the flame arrestor so not to distort the carb throat.