If it starts or sputters on crack that means the ignition side is functioning. It also means that the carb is not delivering fuel properly.
The flame arrestor does need inspection and occasional cleaning.
When the engine quit did it shut down like you turned off the ignition or loose power, run a bit rough and die in a few seconds?
Did you check the carb bowl for fuel after shut down? And when did you check the spark time wise after the shut down?
Try the crack it will answer a lot of questions.
Dave Neptune