Re: starting issues
There is no conventional choke on that motor.
There is a fuel enrichment valve, that releases fuel directly into the intake manifold.
Open fuel tank vent
Check the kill switch, place in "run" position
Squeeze fuel primer bulb till firm.
Advance the throttle 3/4 way, without putting it in gear. -- This is done by either pushing a button in the center of the controls, or pulling the shift handle toward the driver, or raising the fast idle lever, all depending on what control unit you have.
Turn the key to the on/run position.
Activate the choke (fuel enrichment valve) by pushing in on the key. The valve is only open while the key is being pushed in.
Turn the key to start while continuing to hold the key in.
Release the key and choke when it starts.
3-5 seconds of "choke", is usually enough.
Be ready to pull the throttle back toward the idle/neutral position, when the engine starts and the revs increase.
Continue to pull the throttle back as the engine warms up.
You should not have to use the choke much, if at all, once the engine has warmed up.
Engine should start within 10 seconds of turning the key.