Confirm that the fuel valve is on, there’s gas in the tank and the spark plug is in good shape. Shoot a one-second burst of aerosol lubricant or carburetor cleaner down the throat of the carburetor.

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Many small gasoline-powered equipment have a common problem lurking in wait for you -- the dreaded, and almost inevitable, clogged carburetor.

I’ve restored dozens of gas engine lawn mowers, and it’s been my experience that people put them out in the trash while the machines have plenty of life left in them. The average mower sitting ...