But first, to be sure of things, remove the muffler and look at the piston.
If all looks good, go into the carb again, and this time when it is apart, remove the needle/lever/spring and hold the carb up to a light and look through the passage that the needle closes, you should be able to see
light through it.
Blow out that passage with air or carb spray and hold it up to a light again and visually verify that it is clear, then reassmble and try it again.
There is no sign of scratching on the piston or cylinder wall.
I put carb cleaner through every orifice. Everything was visually clear.
The fuel line is brand new, only a few hours on it.
I just cleaned the air cleaner and may have found a hint. When I cracked it open, it was wet with premixed fuel. If memory serves, it has always been dry in the past. Apparently I have fuel entering the filter from the carb. Is this normal?