" Is the issue simply that the air filter is too clogged to allow enough air to pass thru when restarting the engine? "

We can't tell from here how dirty your air cleaner is but I doubt that is your starting problem. Try shutting the gas off 10 seconds or so before stopping the engine.

Walt Conner

Walt, I will pickup a fuel shutoff and install it this weekend. Question: what will shutting the fuel flow off before stopping the engine do to assist when restarting? Or is this just a first step in troubleshooting the issue? Thanks Walt!

They do sell replacement air filter cartridges! I have seen mowers where all they need is a new air filter installed, and then they start up easily! Blowing those things out with air only shoves the dirt further into the filter cartridge! RJ

It is possible that the float needle is leaking a little letting the carb flood when shutting off. After a few minutes, the gas may be evaporating to where it will start OR removing the air cleaner gives enough air to over come the slight flooding.

You can pinch the fuel line closed if it does not have a fuel line shut off although a shut off is always good insurance unless the fuel tank is below the carb inlet.

Walt Conner