MY BUTON MOWER WITH A HONDA GV400 DOES NOT RUN SMOOTHLY -- IT REVES UP AND DOWN - IT HAS RUN FINE FOR ABOUT 15 YEARS BUT NOW IT JUST KEEPS GOING UP AND DOWN AND SOMETIMES I HAVE TO RUN IT WITH A PARTIAL CHOKE TO KEEP IT GOING ?
ANY HELP ON HOW TO FIX IT WOULD BE APPRECIATED .
Bill, it sure sounds like there's a fuel problem, most likely with the carburetor. I'd say there's some debris or slime in there, blocking or plugging a passageway, jet, etc. Often, the main jet and nozzle can become obstructed.
A good soaking or ultrasonic cleaning is a start. Compressed air and aerosol carb cleaner can work wonders. Be absolutely sure you get the carb totally clean and put back together perfectly. Double-check gaskets and seals around the carb. Any tiny air leaks will prevent it from starting back up or running smoothly.
Best of luck overhauling the carb. Be careful, as replacement carbs are no longer available from Honda any more. Some individual parts still are, but not an entire carb. Sorry.
