There are only 2 holes in the carb for the choke shaft. If he plugged them both up real good--then you should be getting fuel up to the engine pretty quick.

Only other thing I can think of is a carnkcase leak. That would cause a problem with not enough vacuum under the piston when flipping. No vacuum--no fuel.

Have you checked the tank and lines. If the brass lines in the tank haven't been de-burred, than a pinhole in the tygon clunk line can cause problems.

Maybe a pinched line from the tank up to the carb. Is it pinched where it runs through the firewall? Are any of the lines old? Maybe replace the whole tank and plumbing system?

Could be one of the diaphrams in the carb. The pulses from the crankcase work the pump diaphram. If it's got even a tiny pinhole in it--your screwed. Carb kits cost about $15 at the local small engine shop.

Pay special attention to the direction of the diaphrams when removing and replacing them. If you get the one on the main jet side mixed up with the other diaphram--it will make the jet stick open all the time. Thats will cause you fits.

Good luck.