I have a Syssa engine that had been running great for the past six months or so. I returned from a trip so the engine had sat for about 8 weeks. When I went to start it it would not even turn over. I checked the ignition and changed the plug. Checked the tank for any obstructions and all seems fine.
I am able to start it if choking it but as soon as the choke is open the motor quickly dies. I cleaned out the filters and screens but does not help. I was thinking it could be a diaphram?
Since this is my first gasser I have no experience with these types of engines. Any suggestion would be appreciated.

Thanks
Doug

Not likely a leaking diaphram unless the engine is old.  It probably would not start with a bad diaphram. Have you checked fuel lines and tank for leaks?

Yes I checked the tank for leaks. It seems fine. Took the gas line off the engine and fuel flows freely thru the tube.
The engine does not run unless me finger is covering the air intake of the carb. I can spin it all day with electric starter and will not even pop unless I am choking it with my finger. As soon as I take my finger way from the intake the engine dies. I will check the lines again today.

Sounds like an air leak in a line or the tank. Have you checked all the engine and carb screws to make sure they are tight?

Just checked the tank again. There does not appear to be any air leak at all. Look at the carb again also and did not see any debris in it and flushed it again with wd 40. All screws were and are tight. Not really sure what is going on with it.

Hmmm; maybe some gas experts will chime in to help.

Sounds like you need some new diaphragms in the carb

How did you do this flush job with WD40? Its time to learn about carbs. Take the covers of one at a time. Note how parts go...take photos with a digital camera if you need too or notes. Make sure the little flappers in the pump section are seating good and are clean with no bends...they got to set level. Gheck in the fuel metering side that the inlet valve is clean & free to work good. Put all parts back together with the pump cover a little loose...then blow in tank vent line to force fuel form the loose plate. Tighten screws & give it another go. I hope you have the Hi & low needles set. If you clean them with air...make sure you know the setting. Hope this helps. Capt,n

Thanks for all the tips guys. I flushed the motor with wd 40 but will try Captinjohns tips now

I replaced the fuel line going into the engine and flushed the carb again. Now the motor starts up nicely. I think the problem had something to do with the fuel line getting old and not having a good seal on the fitting. Even though it seemed like it when doing a pressure test it must have had some kind of air leak.