Melissa,
That's pretty much the same way that mine worked or didn't depending on how you want to look at it. The only consistant thing about mine not starting was it wouldn't start when I really needed it to. I would have a problem two-three days in a row, then nothing for a month or so, then it would happen again.
I too was thinking that Mr. Lucas had struck, and took it to the stealer. After 140.00 for diagnosing the problem, all I came out of there with was a lighter wallet and a total loss of respect for this particular dealer. No problems were found with the electrical system, the starting system, or the engine at all.
Your uncle was pretty close to where my problem was. I am clueless as to how to post pictures here, so with some uidance from someone (hint, hint, hint) I'll be glad to post what I have.
As far as the Sea Foam goes, I had drowned my engine in it as well... Ran 4 cans through it in a week. but it wasn't able to ********* where I needed it, as it was getting sucked into the engine too fast. So I used the dep creap (aerosal Sea Foam) and let it sit in the intake for a half hour or so... Started it... let it run for about 10 min, the shut down, re-sprayed, let it sit, then useds rags and Q-tips to clean all around this vavle front and back.
Any way, hope this helps, I know what its like to not get it started.
Jason