ORIGINAL: springhillflyer
what bothers me is that for the most part it ALWAYS gives the same pop, if i prime it lots and try to start it wet or if i dry it out and only put 2 or 3 drops in the carb and leave the fuel line emply.
Try testing the fuel/carb system as I mentioned.
The first few drops may be enough to get initial detonation, but not enough to keep the engine turning over.
Here's something else for you to think about...
Could someone have pulled the head of the cylinder, and put the liner ( if it has one ) back in the wrong way?
This may also cause your problem.