Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): flywheel key shears, briggs stratton, mechanical governor

Question
I have a Troy Built OHV 17.5 Briggs & Stratton. I reacenly bought from a man who had it setting for about a year. The machine is only about 3 years old. After I got it to run it would only run at high speeds. I cleaned the carb and reinstalled it. Now every time I try to start it the flywheel key will shere and it will be out of time. I never came across this problem before and don't know how to fix it. Hope you can help. Doug

Answer
Did you unscrew or remove the governor arm?  If so you will need to follow the static setting of a mechanical governor.

http://www.briggsandstratton.com/support/frequently-asked-questions/Adjusting%20

One trick I have used in the past is to use some fine valve grinding compound on the crankshaft taper and flywheel and lap the flywheel to the crankshaft.  Is there a washer under the flywheel nut that may be cracked.

Eric