Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Armature key keeps shearing, briggs and stratton, hp briggs

Question
I have an older Ariens tiller with a three hp Briggs and stratton engine. Every time I start it, it shears off the armateur key within seconds and dies. I bought the machine used 10 years ago and it was already old then. Other than the ariens name plate and a remnant of the briggs label on the engine I can find no ID's. Any idea what could be happening? I understand the need for model #'s as I repair machinery for a living but there just isn't any.

Answer
Hello Michael:

The Flywheel Washer is Supposed to be Placed so the Center of its Convex/Concave Design is Pointing Up Around the Crankshaft. The Flywheel Nut/Starter Clutch is Torqued to 150 Foot Pounds. I Suggest you Tighten to What you Consider to be Tight Enough and then Tighten the Flywheel Nut 1/2 Turn More if you Do Not have a Torque Wrench. I Doubt you Will Snap Off the Crankshaft Top or Strip the Crankshaft Threads. The Engine Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. The Only Reason for the Flywheel Key to Shear is Improper Torque. 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