Thanks for the IM again FarmerGrant! 8)
I think it's within the carb. It's starved for gas and the spring retractor from the throttle is worn out. I could probably dink with it, but fear the worse. I'm almost considering a new auger, seeing both of my units are getting old. My Jiffy won't give me a single problem even at -30, but that Strikemaster will act up every time! Usually after the first couple holes have been drilled, the dang thing get's tempermental.