Thanks for all of the info and advise... I just have to commit myself to taking things apart to access the vent. I may just try blowing everything out with my compressor and hope that solves it the easy way. Like the idea of adding a small tube to move the vent to a cleaner and easier to access location.
Thanks again to all...
Eric
Thanks for the reply and picture. I had seen this diagram when I was doing my research but could never find where the heck that little part was. I guess the explanation is that I have to take the whole saw apart to get to that piece. Seems like a kind of big hassle... any idea how involved it is to remove the fuel/handle assembly?? I'm a bit surprised that there is no easier access to something that seems to be a typical problem part.
Thanks,
Eric