I have an intermittent problem. Sometimes it starts up fine and runs fine. Sometimes it is very hard to start, and once it's started, if I give it any gas at all, it dies. Any suggestions? Thanks.

 

Man, that sounds like a pain. I am not a small engine guy, but know that if you give an engine gas and it dies, fuel/air mixture ratio may be incorrect. Is this a two stroke or four? What are weather conditions when this occurs?
Meanwhile, check fuel filter, air filter to see if the fuel filter contains water by dumping the tank side into a clear glass jar and look for water and the air filter for bugs, dirt etc. Then check spark plug(s) connection(s) for correct installation and see if there is water getting into the boots. An intermittent problem can be tough. Let me know what you find.
biglakebubba