Originally Posted by tedsander

If it has been carefully put back on, and the ripped portion mates up well, then I'd say "no". In general, even with a leak, it should definitely fire, although may not run, or more likely run poorly. But not even a "pop"? then it can only be one of three things:
1. The glow plug is not glowing, or barely glowing. Take it out, and in dimmer lighting, see how it looks when connected to the battery. A bright orange is what you want. Make sure you are using a washer when installing the glow plug.
2. Something preventing fuel flow. Time to check the carb, especially the high speed needle end, seat, passage for any gunk kicked loose from the cleaning method. I'd guess something in the spray bar, blocking the hole/slot in it.
3. Too much fuel, resulting in the engine flooding very quickly. Danger here using a starter, as hydraulic lock can happen, and the starter then bending connecting rods, etc. (almost all of us old guys have done it sometime in our past). Close the high speed needle. 2 to 2 1/2 turns open. Disconnect the fuel line. See if any pours out of the muffler when tipping it and turning the prop by hand. Take plug off, and use the starter to spin the engine (watch out for the spray that may hit you in the face!). Repeat a few times to make sure all excess is out. Put the plug back, reconnect the fuel line. Try to start.

Since you may be taking it out to check the carb, no issue making a gasket out of a business card....