Doodlefork...Welcome too the forum.
What you are doing right now is a great help in learning too troubleshoot. The internet forums are loaded with questions and answers.
The more you lurk, ask questions and give answers...the more you will find out about what happens in the real world of OPE.
You will find that certain questions like:"
I hit a water pipe in the yard...My mower wont start....and it jerks the rope out of my hand. What do I do?"
After seeing that question appear about 8000 times....it will become obvious too you that the flywheel key is the place too start. (Actually, checking the crank is the first place too start.)
And never be afraid too ask questions here, or anyplace else...there are a lot of folks that know the answers....and are always glad too help.