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

I've had the 221Q for 3 years, so only really used it for 2 full seasons so far. I always ran out the gas at winter's end, & use fresh gas/oil mix every year. Started it, or tried to, yesterday during that snowstorm in N.E., & found that the starting cord would not pull all the way. I could pull it 1/2 way out, & then there was no pulling it further. That happened about 8 or 9 times out of ten. Finally it started, & ran (a bit roughly) for about 15 min., then the engine died. Went thru the same routine trying to start it; then gave up for awhile & shoveled. Finally started it again, but it ran really rough for only a few min., then the engine died again. Then same routine again 20-30 min. later. Then, 30 min. later, when I was seriously considering shooting it with a shotgun (in reality I don't own a shotgun), I tried to start it again, & it fired right up. Ran great for as much time as it took me to finish the whole driveway! I haven't taken off the plastic shroud cover yet to check the plug; I'm ordering a new spark plug. But my biggest question is: why wouldn't the starting cord pull all the way for dozens of times? I didn't have a chance a starting it when that was happening. TIA for any feedback.

I bought a used gasoline Toro powershove dirt cheap because of a similar problem with the pull start mechanism.   The machine was virtually unused due to the previous owner not being able to start it because the pawls wouldn't engage.  I opened it up and noticed that the pawls needed lubrication.  I gave them a shot of WD-40 and the thing starts and runs like a champ.  Simple, easy fix. 

I suspect that this person's problem is considerably different.  I get the feeling that one of the pawls might be dislodged and jamming between the flywheel and engine block when attempting to pull start.  Open it up and pull the recoil off.  It's not all that difficult to do.  Just be patient and observant.

just a guess.. sounds like it might be a (partial sheared flywheel key)