EH350 carburetor issues

[drs1023]

I rebuilt my EH350 engine ('02 EZ-GO Workhorse) a few months back, but the carburetor has been giving trouble off and on for a long time. The rebuild kit contained +0.25 mm pistons, and I had a local machine shop bore it for me. The kit came with all new gaskets, seals, etc. so I don't think there's a leak in the air induction system. My air cleaner isn't in the greatest shape, but it "seals" around the air filter.

I bought a new (probably Chinese) carb, and the cart won't even start with it on there. My OE carb runs ONLY IF the choke lever is always 75% ~ 80% ON. It has gotten to the point that I have the choke pulled out and a fuel line clamp on it to keep it from returning. The engine runs fine this way, but will backfire periodically due to being run so rich. There's no black smoke or plug fouling, but from time to time, I smell unburned gas in the engine bay.

The only adjustment to the carburetor is the little screw on top. Someone removed the plastic limiter cap years ago, so I am able to put this jet anywhere.

Why would it require the choke to be almost fully on the run halfway right?

[scottyb]

You are restricting the air flow in, which means the motor is fuel starved. Maybe a supply problem? IDK.