2002 Ozark starts easily with choke on. I let it warm up a bit while slowly backing off on the choke until it reaches idle. While idling it has a sporadic "cough" that occurs every 15 - 20 seconds. It will sometimes die and has to be restarted. This occurrs until it is fully warm, then it idles perfectly and the "cough" disappears. The coughing sound can be describied as like it is relieving compression, or has a slight backfire thru the carb.

Some notes: Vacuum petcock seems to be functioning OK in the on postion. I never have to use prime. New plug and air filter. Clamps on carb are snug both front and back

My thoughts are it may have a small air leak on the intake side of the carb, or the values might need adjusting.

Anyone had this issue with their Ozark? Any and all feedback is appreciated.

 

The cough sounds like a lean misfire. Maybe the pilot jet is slightly plugged.

If you're wondering about an intake leak, spray something (I used brake cleaner but I guess anything volatile will work) around the intake while its running and see what happens.

 

Thanks for the input. I adjusted the pilot screw to richer and leaner settings. It didn't have any impact to the coughing. I'll try spraying some carb cleaner on the intake as you suggest.