Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

TECUMSEH HM 100  I tried to start it without the key and no spark,  I tried with the electric starter if that makes a differance.  How do I defeat this switch? Bridge some connections?, or insert a piece of plastic to make some kink of connection? You guys know how frustrating a glitch like this is. Oil change new plug good gas and can't get it to fire because of this goofy key!  HELP. richb

Rich,

Use a popsicle stick!!!  Or tongue depressor.

Tape it in place, so vibration does not shake it out.

On my blower, I have it tied to a bar near where it is needed,  on a piece of nylon cord.

Have not lost one yet ! ! ! ! !

                                              Fred

The way the keys work is they seperate a connection coming from the spark coil from being grounded. When its grounded no spark will be produced, and in turn, the engine will not run(unless you some how got it hot enough to diesel but I have only heard of that happening in cars).

I am actually angered that this is the only type of key for my ariens. I plan on purchasing a key switch and attatching it to the control panel so I can kill the engin from there and so it would be harder for someone(stupid) to steal.