Pat is right on. Leave hole in plate. A good way to start a engine is to give it a shot of fuel in carb. This is kinda like priming it. Have the choke a little way open and the engine should start right up and stay running. As it warms up open choke to full open. Every engine has a certain idle setting and choke setting...if done right...they start right up and stay running. Best Regards Capt,n