So I adopted an L series Lawnboy self propelled model and it won't start. New spark plug and it is getting a spark. I cleaned out the carburetor, but it was already looking pretty good. I wasn't sure about the air vane, because my neighbor who gave it to me took the carb apart and ruined the air vane spring. I replaced it, but how much tension and in which position is it supposed to be in? My other lawnboy is newer and its air vane is to the right with a little tension if looking at it from the air filter. I tried this however, and it still wouldn't start. It started barely once after many pulls and ran roughly almost choking and I moved the throttle from choke to fast and it died forever. Any ideas? I think the model number is L21ZSM, but if that's important I'll find it later. Thanks in advance.
Regards,
STeve

Well I've managed to clean out the carb and set the air vane properly and the needle idle. I still only once in a while get a start that will last and now does not shut off if I play with the throttle lever. So that is a plus. BUT, if I shut it off, I can't get it started again. I pull and pull, but I start smelling gas and know that I have flooded the engine. Only one start a day still, but a little better. Any ideas? Carb float or something else? Why flood so easily? Thanks in advance
Steve