[Snip]

Thanks to you all for your comments and advice. Being a total novice
with engines, could you possibly point me in the right direction as to
how I remove & clean carbs ? Maybe a web site with simple, easy to
follow pictures exists ? I've looked far and wide, but if you guys
know of one I'd be grateful.

Thanks again for your help.

Ian.

A workshop manual is worth it's weight in gold for stuff like this.

Since you have 2 carbs (guessing) it's important that they are
synchronized, the maunal will explain the setup.

Do one carb at a time and be methodical, if you get stuck, refer to
the other carb. It's not a complicated operation. Also, write down ALL
your adjusting screw settings (e.g. nuber of turns to full closed)
this will facilitate your fine tuning later.

On 2 strokes with multi carbs, it's important that both are supplying
fuel and the vital lubrication to the moving parts. Don't spent time
trying to crank it if it needs work, you'll be doing all sorts of
damage.

Good Luck.