Update:
1. Checked that gas flows nice and good all the way to carb and float bowel fills up.
2. Took carb out and removed the float bowel. Appears float is not stuck.
3. There is a small tube in the center of the carb. And inside it I see what appears to be a needle (or jet - heck I do not know what it is called). There is a pin hole in this tube, which I assume is used to fill the carb. The pin hole works fine, but cannot comment on the jet. Not sure how to test it. I guess it is time to unscrew the jet and give it a good blow or two (with air ofcourse!)?
The float may move freely, but the needle valve itself? usually has a small rubber piece on the end, or smooth brass cone that creates the seal. Pull the entire float off and needle. A stuck needle may cause flooding or inconsistant fuel flow. Dont use too much air if blowing out carb, bad things happen
A good soak and thourough cleaning usually result in a smooth running engine. Trying to rush the cleaning causes most failures. Dont ask me how I know this. $90 dollars later I have a smooth running weed wacker, If only I took my own advice
The guitar strings sound great, just dont force things, light poking, gentle twisting should be all you need.