I should have been a little clearer in my original post re- the o rings. I replaced the one on the jet initially as it simply wasn�t present with the carb however the o ring on the emulsifier look pretty good so I left it as is. Note to self: just replace each ring next time I get another ultima!
Grumpy your description of what the engine was doing re: running rich like it had too much choke applied is exactly right. I need to get my desciptions a little better moving forward to get an easier diagnosis.
Grumpy I went with your recommendation to remove the tube from the carb and hey presto the high reving was gone after a little tuning. I thought the position of the breather hose wasn�t effecting the linkages but it was. I very carefully replaced the hose so it didn�t affect the linkage and now it idles very nicely and full speed is spot on.
I�d like to note for others that these engines need to be tuned when hot as per Bigteds instructions.
I gave this mower a good run today for 20 odd minutes in some long grass and it didn�t miss a beat. These units have plenty of power and when running properly are damm good engines.
Guys, thanks for the expert assistance. I hope the thread can be useful to others.
Sean,
If you are only just starting out with fixing engines this one really isnt the easiest however don�t give up. I�d suggest starting a separate thread and post your problems as you go and I along with others will be able to assist, rather the confusing people with posting 2 separate sets of questions in the same thread.
Grumpy, I will leave it with you whether or not you close it off.
Peter