On Thu, 1 Dec 2016 08:25:44 -0800 (PST), wrote:

I have a craftsmen 5.5 horse power lawnmower.

It starts up only when I spray starter fluid into the carb from the air filter side and then dies in a few seconds.

I removed the carburetor and cleaned the bottom portion which had a lot of yellow gunk build up. I cleaned the little holes in the bottom screw and removed the gunk. I am not sure how to break apart the carburetor so I just put it back after rinsing it in fuel.

I also replaced the air filter.

it starts when I spray starter fluid and then dies.

I thought it was a fuel delivery problem, but when I removed the carburetor I noticed fuel coming out from the carb as I had not disconnected the fuel line, so I am not sure if that is the cause.

Any ideas ?

I say it is time to buy a rebuild kit and spend an hour rebuilding the
carburetor. You could also check and see what a replacement carb
would cost, but the rebuild kit will probably be under $10.

Then, watch a couple of carb rebuild videos on YouTube and you will be
all set to tackle it.