Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda Harmony 215 Running Erraticly, starter cord, timing belt

Question
I have had a Honda Harmony that has run like a champ for the last couple of seasons.  Last week while mowing the last patch of grass, the mower inexplicably stalled out.  When I pulled on the starter cord, the resistance was more than twice that of a regular pull.

I took the mower to a popular repair shop in Seattle and the gentlemen there "giggled" around the cables and restarted the mower right in front of me.  I took the mower home, and began mowing when the problem arose once again.  I tried to giggle cables to no avail.

This particular model requires me to hold the "blade engagement" bar before starting and running.  I believe that this has something to do with the problem.

Please advise, thank you

Jake

Answer
 Hello Jake:

 Does the Engine Restart Normally After it has Cooled? It Could be the Timing Belt has Jumped Time or the Flywheel Key is Damaged. Did the ENgine have a Lot of Compression when it Happened After Returning from the Shop? Send me All the Numbers Off the Mower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. Thanks.

 Respectfully

 John