I'd start with posting the model number of the MTD mower, and more importantly the model number, type number, and serial number of the engine. At this point we have no idea of the make and manufacture of the engine.

I am sorry, I should have added all of the information.

The manual says the model number of the mower is that is the 500 series,

The manual for the engine says that the model is 100000 and that it is a 500 series. The serial number is 0906235436053.

Thanks for the help by the way.

Local mower shop is probably right by the time you pay for labor and parts. However, you might luck out and it's just crud in the carb. Buy a can of SeaFoam and add a couple ounces to the gas and as it runs, the fuel circuit including carb is being cleaned. Try doing that for a couple tanks of gas.

If you don't add StaBil or equivalent gas stabilizer, it's a self inflicted wound, ethanol in gas really gums up small engines. Get some Stabil, and put proper amount in can, then add gas. Supposed to keep gas good for a year or something.

A cheaper equivalent to SeaFoam is carb/choke/fuel injector cleaner, different labels, but essentially the same thing. If you have a can of that hanging around, try it. I just think SeaFoam is the preferred way to go.

Good luck,

Ev

Agree with exmar, SeaFoam can work wonders sometimes. If that doesn't help, clean out and rebuild the carb. Make sure you clean out all the small holes. Also while you have it out, check the air filter and fuel line.