200X Problem

[R-N-D]

I'm setting this up for a friend of mine so here's the deal: My buddy had purchased this 200X and since he's had it he's been having trouble keeping it running. After trying for some time he can get it to run and keep it running but only with the choke on. After he lets it sit for a few hours, he can no longer get it to start up. He thought that his carb was bad so he had it cleaned and still the same problem. He then went and picked up a brand new carb and for the first few days, it fired up instantly. Since then, he has had the same issues as before. He can get it to fire up but needs to keep the choke on. Once it is shut down, he cannot fire it back up right away or even hours later. However, if he tries it the next day, fires up again.

Anyone have any suggestions or similar problems that can help my friend solve these issues? He's on the verge of getting rid of it unless he can figure out his problem. I appreciate any and all suggestions/answers. I'd hate for him to have to sell it for something that may be minor. Maybe it's minor, I certainly do not know. Thanks for the help.

[sand duner]

its always a good idea when getting something new (to you) to do a compression test and check valve gap.

When it dies and he cant get it to fire does it have spark???

[dads]

hows the fuel flow from the tank to the carb.

[sly'85]

Well, having the choke on gives the engine less air, richens the mixture, so there may be a leak somewhere that is getting larger as things warm up. I would spray starter fluid around the carb boots and inlet to the motor. If the engine picks up in rpm then you know for sure it's a leak. Check all clamps and connections.