Yes, your friends could have let you down with permanence. But letÂs not get down on them just yet. If it starts easily I would assume the compression is OK. Pull the starter rope moderately, does it have a pretty good chug-chug?

Check the air filter, this is my #1 best guess. While your hands are dirty you may as well pull the plug and check it too, not likely but itÂs quick and easy.

If itÂs not all better after those 2 things I would check the spark arrestor screen and the exhaust ports for carbon buildup. Check the fuel pickup/filter in the tank.

Still not up to snuff after all that? Then I would go after the carburetor with solvent and very fine tag wire.

Good luck.

spark arrestor on muffler.

Thanks guys! You really saved me some unnecessary repair bills.

I didn't realize there could be a clog in the exhaust system. Then again, I didn't realize there was a tiny metal screen 'spark arrestor' between the muffler and exhaust manifold. My screen was totally clogged. But, it was easy enough to take apart down and clean with some paint thinner. The engine now idles like new and revs up like a champ.