Hello John,
Have you looked down into the plug hole to check the cylinder for scoring? You can also remove the muffler to actually see if the side of the piston is scored.
Are you using the correct number spark plug it calls for and not just one that fits?
Are you using a different 2-stroke oil in your mix?
Is the string head spinning freely like it should, or is it tight from gear binding due to lack of lubrication?
Otherwise, it sounds like the engine is getting tired and losing compression with age and use. Maybe a small about of extra oil in your mix will help