My Lawnmower must be a Chevy

I had a Toro before this one and it was reliable as a slant six. It started on the second pull every time. loud as heck though. The motor finally fell through the base after I took it off a curb. I think the gas is crap here in the winter, and the "power screw" with the jet in it draws gas from the very bottom of the bowl. Dont know why I have to mow, it hasnt rained but once since june.