New pump not pumping to carb - why?

[fixitdad45]

I'm aware of that particular step but don't see the point in getting it to run for a few seconds of there's still no fuel coming from the pump. The pulse function is broken here somewhere.

 

[Boobala]

I'm aware of that particular step but don't see the point in getting it to run for a few seconds of there's still no fuel coming from the pump. The pulse function is broken here somewhere.

At least if it runs, and it runs for a short time that helps confirm it is the fuel system and NOT something else....
we are beginning to "shoot arrows everywhere" have you tried a different pump..?? might get a used one from a mower shop cheap . .or a GOOD friend ...there is not a lot to the fuel system.. I realize this is not YOUR mower.. and by now you might feel awkward in front of your friend.... I hope he realizes YOU are TRYING to help HIM !!

OOoopps my goof.. just saw you did replace pump ...

 

[bertsmobile1]

I'm aware of that particular step but don't see the point in getting it to run for a few seconds of there's still no fuel coming from the pump. The pulse function is broken here somewhere.

Which means that you have to take the "stuck" rocker cover off and when you replace the gasket, put some sealant on the rocker cover side and some high temp wheel bearing grease on the other so it will then strip off easily.
However the "Pump" function is created by the piston moving up and down in the cylinder so the first thing to do is to check the piston is moving by shoving a stick down the plug hole and turning the engine over by hand.
If it is moving then pull the head off and replace the head gasket they blow between the cylinder and the pushrod tubes quite regularly
Clean the outside of the motor carefully before you start looking for holes in the crankcase.
I did have a mower come in with the rod poking out of the crank where it was hard to see.
The owner had spent over $ 500 on new parts trying to get his totalled engine to start.