Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): MTD mower 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, briggs stratton, mtd mower

Question
Briggs & Stratton  Model 31C707   
Type 0154-E1    
Code 050301ZE

Engine stopped while mowing.  Found broken intake push rod.  Bought new intake push rod and attempted to install. However it did not seem to go all the way in.  What should I start looking at as potential reason/problem?

Answer
Maybe take a flashlight and look into the push rod hole for any damage.

Remove the spark plug.   Use a stiff piece of wire or 3/16" all thread rod and instert into intake push rod hole.  Rotate engine by hand while putting some slight pressure on the all thread rod.  Can you feel the valve tappet moving?

The valve tappet may have suffered damage.

Let me know what you find.
Eric