Honda GX120 won't rev

[BouncyBili]

Hi

Just got a used Honda rotavator powered by GX120 engine (number GC01-2445886).

Starts (pull start) fine with full choke and throttle seems OK with choke on.

Engine warm choke off - won't rev. As soon as I open the throttle it falters and dies. Closing throttle or putting choke back on will keep it going.

New air filter (old one was cack!!), fresh fuel. Old plug but cleaned and checked gap.

Can anyone help?

Thanks, Bill.

[StarTech]

It sounds like passages are clogged with old fuel crud. Quite common with ethanol fuels blends.

I would clean the carburetor thoroughly in an ultrasonic cleaner and if that resolves the problem.

[BouncyBili]

Thanks - I was thinking it was either ignition or carb jets.

In the absence of an ultrasonic cleaner, guess I'll just try and clean it as best I can.

[KE4AVB]

You can still use the old method of dip cleaning just got remove at the rubber parts. It was still available at the local the last time I checked. It is just that the ultrasonic is the preferred method with the EPA cracking down hazard waste disposal. By the time we buy 3 buckets of the cleaner we can buy a cheap ultrasonic cleaning unit for limited use.

[bobodu]

Start with a $5 can of carb cleaner and compressed air. Half the time nothing else is required.

[mwerles]

Start out cheap:try a new plug
Les