Just purchased a used DA 50. Tried to start it and it would fire after being choked, then flipped a couple of times would fire but would not run but for just a few seconds, then nothing. Choked again and then the same thing. Pulled the cowl and found the carburetor was flipped around but the spacer and gaskets were in the same original position. Question: I thought if the carburetor was flipped that the spacer block and tube connection had to be flipped as well. ?? Can anyone elighten me???? Should I pull the carb and rotate the spacers and gaskets to align with the original orientation of the carb?

Thanks
MC

Probably the heat block and the ignition valve would not have to be turned if the flow is maintained, i.e., if nothing shows as obstructing them. As a matter of fact, the construction of the engine provides for turning the carburetor without worrying about anything else, as long as debris doesn't enter the reed valve while the carburetor is removed. In any case, that would not cause what you are describing. Since you have to choke it to start it, and after it runs you have to choke it again, most likely the Low end needle is too lean. You should try opening it just a quarter or an eighth of a turn at a time, until you reach a steady run. Then you will have to tune the high end needle, and go back to the low. The DA is a fantastic engine, and if it starts, it runs. The only other possibility, very rare but possible, would be that the bearings are already worn, and then you wouldn't be able to make it run properly, but, as I say, I wouldn't even consider the possibility just yet. Try adjusting the needles, and you'll get it running like a charm.

Regards

If the engine has sat for a long time - the pump in the carb may have a curled up check valve on the diaphragm and will not pump? The suction of the engine is bringing fuel to the engine while the choke is closed?

Thanks Guys... I'll pull the carb and check to make sure the gaskets and the spacer block are alaigned correctly. Did not think about the pump being curled up. I'll pull the covers to ck as well.
Appreciate the help.
MC