Bought a used, great compression BME 44. Can anyone tell me the preliminary needle settings. I can get it to pop but not run. Installed new ign., plug and carb looked clear and clean outside. I have started trying with 11/2 turns each screw. No luck! I'll pull off and open the carb last resort, just don't think thats the problem.

Since you may not know the history of the engine, rebuild the carburetor first. You are getting gas to the engine but not enough. Dan.

I pulled the carb and pulled it down one side at a time. Very clean inside and no torn or broken gaskets. Each gasket was installed properly. The fuel pump valve tabs were soft and flat. The needle side diaphragm was excellent no wear or holes. The needle moved freely. I blew everything out with air and either spray and re assembled the carb and installed it. Tried to start the engine and similar results. Remember, I said I had replaced the ignition module. I now believe the engine is firing under the wrong timing. I could choke it with full throttle and get it to pop, open the choke reset the throttle to about 1/4 open and it would pop on each stroke for 3 to 4 times and then go silent. I'm going to talk to the BME group monday and see what they think.

Roger, make sure that the diaphragm on the side with the four screws is against the cover not the body of the carburetor. If that carb is the kind with a fork on the metering needle lever, that diaphragm needs to engage it. Dan

It does. I checked the timing this morning and it is spot on 28 before tdc. I'm puzzled. I still would like to know if 1 1/2 turns out should be a good place to start with the adjustment screws. I tried 2 turns and same result. Wish I could spin with an electric starter. I'm 68 and my right shoulder is sore from yesterday.

Try squirting some fuel into the spark plug hole and see if it runs for a few seconds, if so it may be a fuel delivery problem.
Also open the needles more and see it this helps.

Success! Changed to a two blade prop and opened the throttle a little more and off she went. I shut her down and turned the screws in a little at a time and now it starts in a flip or two and idles well. Wow this engine is a beast. I've got it on my scratch built 8 ft. Otter. about 23 pounds filled and ready. I've got to find my hand tack it's on the bench somewhere and see the rpms at idle and full. I'll post them later.