I have an Ariens 522EC. It's about 5 yrs old, my sister gfave it to me. It wouldn't start. The pull cord stuck as if the engine was ceased. GHad it reparied for $85. After 3 uses, same thing. As I was finishing up driveway, it stalled(full tank). I can't start it again. The pull cord is stuck as if engine ceased. any thoughts
1) Check oil level
2) Remove spark plug and see if engine can be turned over by hand.
3) Remove recoil starter and see if it's broken or just stuck( most likely the problem )
4) Be sure fuel hasn't flooded the combustion chamber, you can check this while the spark plug is removed. If flooded, you have a problem with the carb. float. Repair the float and be sure crankcase oil hasn't been diluted with fuel. If so, change the oil before running the engine.
5) If engine won't turn over, you probably have a broken connecting rod, which will need to be repaired.
Jake...
That's my story...and I'm stickin' to it..