Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Gas Blower/Vac 358.797170 is not starting, recoil starter, starter rope

Question
Hello,
I have a Gas blower/vacuum Craftsman 358.797170 (blowing leaves etc..) which is not starting. The starter rope does not move when pulled. I dismantled it to see what is happening.
The rope is connected to the Starter pulley via spring. I removed the Pulley kit and if pull the Starter rope, it winds up correctly i.e. the spring + pulley kit *seems* to be fine.
It is only when I assemble the system completely by putting the pulley +spring on the motor shaft that it does not move.
Let me know if any one can suggest any other troubleshooting tips or knows what is the problem.
The detailed assembly maps are at http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/retrieveSubComponentPartsAction.acti... .

Thanks in advance.

Chinta Chandakkar

Answer
Hello Chinta:

Thanks for the Link. Does the Engine Turn by Hand with the Recoil Starter on the Engine? Does the Engine Turn by Hand with the Recoil Starter Off the Engine? Is there Anything in the Blower that May be Jamming the Impeller? To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists for you Equipment Using the "View Sub Components" Section. Remove the Muffler and Look Inside the Jug/Cylinder. Is the Jug/Cylinder and Piston Smooth like Glass or is it Scratched or Gouged? If Scratched or Gouged, then the Engine is Bad. The Scratching and Gouging is Due to Improper Fuel Mix Ratio. Thanks.

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John