Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears chain Drive Roto Spader, recoil starter, starter rope

Question
Hi,
  I have a very old Sears Chain Driv Roto Spader model no
917.294560. It was working fine but all of sudden it looks
like something locked up and now i can pull the starter
rope. It is very tight. Can you please advise what should i
do?
Thank you in advance.

Jigar  

Answer
Hello Jigar:

>>From your Description it Sounds like the Recoil Starter may be Binding or the Engine was Run with Low Oil and the Cylinder and Piston or Connecting Rod have become Damaged.
>>Remove the Recoil Starter and Turn the Engine by Hand with the Spark Plug Out.
>>Does the Engine Turn Smoothly or is it Still Tight?
>>If Turning Smoothly, then Pull the Recoil Starter.
>>If the Recoil Starter Pulles Easily, then
>>Remove the Engines Cylinder Head and Inspect the Cylinder.
>>This Unit was Manufactured by AYP.
>>Send me the Make, Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 3 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. All Follow up Questions are Accepted at Any Time. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John