Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S model 10g902, steering wheel puller, small engines

Question
The mower is a Murray, and was runninng fine until my wife hit a branch, nothing appears bent underneath.  Starts fine then slows down and dies.  Plug shows black and it starts smoking a bit as it begins to slow...only will run for a minute before it dies.

Answer
Hello Kevin:

Since this Mower Hit an Object the First thing to Check is the Flywheel Key. From your Description, it Sounds like the Key has been Damaged and the Plug is Firing out of Time. Do Not Mistake this as the Engine Timing, Please. Small Engines have 2 Timings. One is the Valve Timing and is Set Internally with the Crankshaft and Cam and the Other is the Plug Timing and is Set Using the Flywheel Key. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM and Enter the Model Numbers. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. Remove the Blower Housing (metal engine cover). Remove the Flywheel Nut or Starter Cup (Depends on the Model). Now Attach a Steering Wheel Puller to the Flywheel Using the Threaded Holes in the Flywheel. Tighten the Puller. Now Hit the Puller with a Hammer. Repeat this Procedure Until the Flywheel Pops Up or can be Lifted Off the Crankshaft. If the Flywheel Key is Not the Problem, then for Some Reason the Carburetor is Flooding the Engine. I Looked at the Carburetor Breakdown and Feel 99% Sure the Flywheel Key has been Damaged. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. 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 you Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John