have to close choke plate?? to keep car running-why??

This happens to my small engines if I forget to drain the gasoline out of them or add Stabil.

My guess is that when the engine was sitting, there was still fuel in the carb bowl. It has gummed and is clogging the carb.

Spray a carb cleaner in the carb, especially in the bowl vent to try to fill the bowl. Also back out the idle adjustment needles a turn or so. Then start the engine and run for 15 or 30 seconds. Repeat the cleaner and start-up several times. It might work.

If not, you'll need a carb kit. Cause you may have to go into the carb and mechanically/air pressure clean it out.

Red