Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawnmower, rock man, badge of honor

Question
Hi
I recently hit a big exposed rock with my lawn mower.
Since the it vibrates badly.
Do you think the shaft is bent?
Can this be fixed or should I just buy a new one?

Answer
I gotta like a guy named "Bud".  Me and "Bud" are pretty good friends!

Sorry dude, your shaft is bent.  If your mower cost 500.00 or more when new, it is worth fixing.  It will cost about 275.00.  If you can replace the crank yourself parts will be about 130.00.   If every thing else works great fix it.  If you have a 200.00 mower from Walmart it's scrap.

Congratulations Bud,  You receive the "Truthmeister" Badge of Honor for the week.

You actually admitted to hitting the BIG EXPOSED ROCK, most people blame it on your kid, or, your neighbor, or, your wife or, you get the picture.

You could be the star of the next "Bud" radio ad.  We salute you, mister admits to HITTING A BIG EXPOSED ROCK man. Sing it in your head, it's kinda catchy.

If you want, run the baby until it blows.  It will be extremley cool and no one will get hurt!