QUOTE "choke is wide open when i try to start; the chob knob is pulled all the way out"
???
If the choke knob is pulled all the way out, then the choke butterfly valve should be completely closed. If the knob is all of the way in, the choke butterfly should be wide open.
Have you tried priming, which will tell us if there is gas in the carburetor?
Jon.
ooops, i had it backwards...

long day....
i will let it sit overnight and then try priming. i will also check the choke with the air cleaner off, and report back.
thanks all!