Honda HRR2168VKA will not start

I purchase a reconditioned Honda HRR2168VKA that has an auto choke. When I got home, put in new oil and know good gas, checked the spark plug for the correct gap, and checked the air cleaner. All appeared to be ok. Tried to start and pulled 10 times, the engine popped a couple of times but did not start. Went back and rechecked what I did and did not find anything wrong. Removed the air cleaner and sprayed some starting fluid in the carb – I really do not like doing this, but was trying to find the issue. After 3 pulls the engine started. Good, all is well, but not really. Put the air cleaner back on and now it will not start. If I remove the air cleaner, the engine will start. I also noticed that the engine runs a full speed and I think this is normal as there is no throttle adjustment on this mower. Do you think this might be a carb issue or an auto choke issue? I have ordered the shop manual, but was wondering where to start. Thanks for any help that you can offer.

 

Many times I have found that when the air filter assembly has been taken off or the carburetor removed for cleaning the choke assembly is not correctly put back together correctly and the choke will not function. Recheck that choke is working. Also recheck that fuel shut off is on if so equip.

 

I will do that and let you know. I will be gone next week but I will keep you posted. Thank you for your suggestion.

 

Hondas are really picky when it comes to air filters (& spark plugs)?? Try a new air filter in it even if yours looks O.K'
Roger