Hi guys.

I got it fixed with a package from Sears with a new spark plug, oil ,
gas purifier+ air filter.
Both the air filter and plug were found to be greasy. Likely I was
tipping the mower last fall the wrong side resulting in oil stuck in
the plug and the filter. My fault: I should have taken those apart
before posting. Now I am spoilt with posting questions before doing
the most obvious. Anyway I have changed everything and it started
with just one pull with no smoke at all.
Thanks for all your guys' info and valuable inputs\.

Daniel
Toronto