I wanted to close this (is this called a "thread) series with a good result. I received a PM from a kind person on this board who suggested that I contact Mr. Tim Loomis. We talked a couple times because I was stuck south of here dealing with a perscription issue. Finally I traveled to Mr. Loomis' business. He is located near the Thunderbird restyaurant.
In a very, very short time he determined the problem, suggested a very inexpensive remedy and within half an hour he had the machine running as good as the day I bought it ... which is about 12 years ago. A very good result.
I did not ask Mr. Loomis but as I looked around his repair shop I determined that he is capable of repairing most small engine driven machines; snow blowers, lawn mowers, riding mowers, probably ATV's. Additionally, he is very interesting to chat with, he reads a lot and is knowledgeable in more than just small engines.
For me it was a good experience.