Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawnmower wont start - no fire, champion spark plugs, compression stroke

Question
Hi John,

I own a Ryobi E-Z start 6.5 HP lawnmower with a B&S engine  model 123K02/ type 0450 E1. I basically abused the mower last season culminating when I hit a rock last fall. After the rock hit it began having difficulties starting but did start after several attempts. It ran terribly however until I had it tuned up very late last season, blade replaced, etc.

I stored it in a warm dry place over the winter. Again this spring I had to crank it 50 times before it would start. However, when it ran, it ran great. I'm attempted to get to my third major mow of the season and it won't start. The sparkplug is cold to the touch. I've scraped its housing to ensure it is clean. When it was tuned, the sparkplug replacement was an NGK-B6S; I also bought a Champion EZ start 5843 - still no luck with a either plug. I've removed the spark plug and sprayed starter fluid within the housing - no results.

When it ran last, early yesterday... Again it ran fine (after multiple starting cranks of course). When attempting to start again just within minutes after consciously turning it off, it was dead and no response since. Tried again hours later, same dead result.

Any suggestions how to proceed at this point?

Answer
Hello Jim:

First you Need to Replace the Flywheel Key. From your Description, it Sounds like the Rock you Hit Damaged the Flywheel Key. This Times the Plug to Fire at the Proper Time During the Compression Stroke of the Engine. I Don't Like Champion Spark Plugs. NGK and Autolite are the Plugs I Use the Most of. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John