I never posted any knowledge that I do not have in your saga with the carb. But I have really enjoyed reading this thread. I have gained a lot of free "experience" from all those who have posted a helping hand. I am really impressed with your persistence. I hope your mower is finally working for ya. Thank you and have a goodun!!.....Dayton

If your float bowl has a "pinhole" leak, then the bowl must be made of formed steel, plated with zinc or something to retard corrosion. It might have rusted from the outside in, or from the inside out. Maybe you can tell by inspecting the part under a good light. It seems like the Seafoam is working for you. Other people have had similar success with a variety of different fuel system additives, "gum-out" and the like. There is a possibility that continual use of these additives will cause polymer seals and o-rings to degrade over time. You can reduce the risk of this happening if you use minimal, and recommended, amount of additive, mixed with the gas. This repair took extra time and effort-that's just part of the game. Every mechanic can recall stories of repairs that seemed to take forever to accomplish.

the real test will come when it snows...assuming I can remember how to reassemble the cowl shoot etc. etc! Bring it on!

Well it WORKED....never stalled. The only downside is that it got bogged down a bit more than it should...I am guessing after 12 or so years it may need a new belt....I do not think it was clogged...oh well at least it works! Thanks for all the help.