Thanks Grumpy and Joe.
@Grumpy:
//1. Does the air filter noise increase greatly when you open the throttle?
Answer to above is NO. The trigger simple gets pressed easily without any sound or speed changes. This is making me believe as Joe pointed out to check the throttle cable to the carb is indeed working.
how do i do this if the throttle is not moving on pulling the trigger?
thanks again
cheers
dhiren