Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Bolens tiller 31 cc two cycle engine Cord is hard to pull, bolens tiller, compression issue

Question
I have a Bolens tiller with a cord that is hard to pull.  I checked their website and removed the spark plug and pulled the cord hoping to take care of what might be a compression issue, however when I put the spark plug back in I am back to square one.  Any suggestions on what to do?

Answer
Hello Mike:

Remove the Muffler and Inspect the Exhaust Port for Carbon Blocking the Exhaust Port. Check the Muffler and Spark Arrestor Screen (in the muffler) for Carbon Blockage Also. Turn the Engine with the Muffler Off and the Exhaust Port Clean. **Wear Ear Protection, Please. This is Going to be Loud if it Starts.** The Only Other Reasons for this Problem on a 2 Cycle Engine are; 1- Sheared Flywheel Key (on some Model Engines this Key is Now part of the Flywheel and if it has Sheared, then a New Flywheel is Required). 2- The Metering Pump in the Carburetor has Stuck Open and too Much Fuel Mix is Entering the Cylinder and causing the High Compression. You can View a Breakdown of this Unit at this Site Addy; http://www.buymtdonline.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Home_Bolens_10101_19502_-1 and Select the Use Our Detailed Parts Finder. Then Enter the Model Number and Click Search. Then Double Click on your Model. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

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