Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): riding lawn mowers, blown head gasket, tecumseh engine

Question
Recently given a Weed Eater lawn tractor 16.5 HP with a tecumseh engine. Engine Model OHV 165  204413G  Enduro XL/C. It will not start. The person that gave it to me, said he hit something and there was a very loud metal bang and it quit. I already checked the flywheel key and thats not it. It's getting fire to plug, it spins but does not appear to have compression. Any suggestions.


Answer
Hello Tim:

Remove the Spark Plug and Set the Plug Wire Out of the Way. Place your Finger Over the Plug Hole and Turn the Engine. Does it Blow your Finger Off the Plug Hole? If No, then the Connecting Rod has Broken. This is Common with Tecumseh Engines Most Times when they Hit an Object and the Condition are Right. I would Also Guess the Crankshaft is Bent. If Yes, then there is a Valve Problem or a Blown Head Gasket. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the T. Then Select Tecumseh. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Enter the Model Numbers. Then Select your Model and Download the File for Online Viewing. 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