that doesn't sound like any kitten I've ever met
tuned my first gasoline engine today. a small one, powering our weed eater. valve clearances were totally out of whack, and naturally we don't have a feeler gauge small enough so I had to eyeball it (.003-.006 inches, smallest was a .012). one of them was at least .03. very bad. also cleaned the carburetor and gave the spark plug a nice sanding. it's back to its old self!