John - there isn't a lot one can do in "checking the carb" of a long-time sitting engine.
I guess the following would be a start (no pun intended) if patience is not an option:
(1) work the throttle arm to fully open the throttle and MAKE SURE IT RETURNS TO CLOSED!
(2) work the choke arm or link to make sure the choke will completely open and close
(3) NEVER pour fuel down the carburetor throat, fill the bowl using something like an empty ketchup squeeze bottle through the bowl vent
(4) IF AND ONLY IF THERE IS NO BOWL VENT, dribble 1/2 a teaspoon of fuel down the carburetor throat, CLOSE THE CHOKE BUTTERFLY, and back away!
And have a class C fire estinguisher present with the pin pulled!
Yes, I am paranoid! A long time ago, I lost a friend from a carburetor fire. I didn't do the carb, so no guilt trip; but the incident impressed on me that fire CAN happen. This was a running car that developed a leak. When the gentleman started the car it caught on fire. He was then about my age now, and simply could not get out of the car.
Safety only costs a little time, and is a great investment!
Jon
