Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh Snow King HM80 Not Starting, blue flame, ohv engine

Question
John,

First of all, kudos for what you do on this site!  It is impressive the amount of help you deliver...more than you know. I have a 1984 Bolens Snow Thrower with the 8 HP TEC HM80 engine w/electric start.(not working)  After running it for about an hour cleaning up the last snow fall, I shut it down to take a short break.  Upon return it would not start.  After full cool down still no start.
During these start attempts, it fires blue flame through the exhaust and sometimes back through the carb. From my auto engine experience I would say the timing slipped or the valves are sticking.  Does this engine have points that could have slipped and if so how do I access them? Anything suggestions you have would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

Answer
Hello Ray:

You are Correct in your Diagnostics. The Plug Firing is Timed by the Flywheel Key. Sometimes when a Small Engine is Shut Off, the Flywheel Slips and Damages/Shears the Flywheel Key and you have the Problem you Described. This is Not an OHV Engine, so I Suggest you Check the Flywheel Key First. There were No Signs of a Sticking Valve before this Happened (i am assuming), so the Most Likely cause is Going to be the Flywheel Key Damaged/Sheared. 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