Took it out once this summer with topped off tank was partially full from last years gas that had stabilizer. Ran great that one day, as it always has for the last 6 years that I've had it. Went to take it out again few weeks later and it started right up then died after about 30 seconds. I believe there is water in the gas, not sure if it was from the station or it is intruding into the onboard tank somehow but when I siphoned some off the tank it clearly separated. I completely rebuilt the fuel pump (mechanical) and I replaced the fuel line and the anti-siphon valve. Started and ran great for about 30 seconds after the replacements, thought the problem was solved but then died and hasnt started since. I checked the screen going into the carb and it had a little debris but nothing extreme, cleaned it and replaced still nothing. Removed plugs and put new ones in and they are bone dry, plenty o' spark. I removed the fuel line going to carb and with the engine cranking it spits out a good stream so I know the pump is working but when I captured the fuel from the removed line in jug it is definitley rusty and separates when standing, I've never had a problem with water in the tank before but I've never checked the gas by siphoning so don't have a comparison. When I spray a little starter fluid into carb it fires for a sec but backfires through the carb. I dont see any fuel advancing into the carb when the thottle is engaged with engine off. If there is water in the carb where do I start as far as removal? It is the carb with the single jet on right side.
