G2 back fired now won't start

[Cpvfly]

A little history. Inherited the cart. It burns oil. I just kept changing the plugs when they fouled, last time it stoped running I changed the plug. Cleaned out the cylinder. Burned out the gas in it, Went to start it. Wouldn't start. Cranks fine. Had spark. Could smelled gas. Maybe flooded. Let it sit a day cleaned out the cylinder. Checked plug. Still good spark. Sprayed starting fluid in airbox. Boom back fire. Blew lid off air box. I gave up. Now I'm reading how critical the seal in airbox is? I'll check again. But looking for any good tips before I give up
Thanks in advance

[Spicyunicorn]

Air box seal is critical on these but will generally run poorly when it's not sealed properly.. first thing I would start with is checking spark if that's good I'd give carb and good cleaning then a compression test

[cfherrman]

Adjust your butterfly to close all the way when pedal is lifted off to stop backfires.

Are you using the choke? Also use very little pedal to start

[cgtech]

Originally Posted by cfherrman

Adjust your butterfly to close all the way when pedal is lifted off to stop backfires.

Are you using the choke? Also use very little pedal to start

Agreed, and if that ain't it, it's time to pull valve cover off & check valve train. This is to happen after a compression test so you could see any major faults. (Low compression? Is that due to a valve train problem, or just super worn out engine). And don't forget to check all the throttle cables, from pedal to carb.