I’m Out Of Ideas. Fuel Leaks

I realise this is a very old question, but it came up now because someone had answered (but it was removed), and I do have some experience with small engines. Having a leaky engine is common, especially in the US/Canada/UK, due to the fuel there. The ethanol used as additive destroys the fuel system, gums up in the carb(s) and wreaks havoc on diaphragms in the 2 stroke carbs and the fuel lines. Fuel lines and filter must be replaced fairly often, and the machine should be run dry of fuel before storage.

Changing the gas tank cap is also often needed, because there is a vent there that very often gums up, increasing pressure in the tank and stopping airflow.

@mayer I just have to note: $275 to rebuild a carb is just appalling!! That’s a $50-60 job, and that should even include most parts (unless it uses a more expensive float). Toro mowers are dang easy to work on too!