Small engine not getting enough gas through carb. Any ideas?

Question

I have squirted carb cleaner through the venturi as it just catches. Then it dies. When I push on the relief valve (on the carb), gas comes out.

Answer 1

I would assume you have a Tecumseh motor for the fact you said relief valve.
its actually a drain.
the easiest uneducated way to fix your problem would be:
remove the brass plug on the bottom of the carb next to the drain.
this is actually a jet which meters the amount of fuel to air.
let some gas run out to help clean things.
run a wire, like from a wire brush through all the holes in the brass jet.
reinstall then try again.be carefull not to over tighten as they break easily.
most of the time this is the problem.
doing it this way you shouldn't be able to hurt anything

Answer 2

Sounds like the carb needs cleaning. It should be removed, disassembled and soaked in a cleaner for a couple of hours. Then check the jets to make sure they are free of junk. Blow them and the carb out with air and put it back together.

Answer 3

If the engine has been sitting up for any period of time lacquer will dry on the needle valve. Drain the old gas, clean the needle valve. I learned this the hard way with the engine on a RV generator.

Answer 4

Sounds similar to a fuel pump problem...or could be the timing is off.

Answer 5

Bad fuel pump

Answer 6

you probably need an aftermarket carb...or a stock replacement...could be a jetting problem as well..not sure.