Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn mower sounds rough., mcpeake, mtd lawnflite

Question
Dear Allen,

I was wondering if you could help me. I've got a MTD Lawnflite 282P 3.5hp lawn mower. Recently she has become very clicky and runs very rough. I've tried changing the plug but htis hasn't helped. Have you any suggestions as I know little about this engine.
Many Thanks,
Anthony McPeake.

Answer
Hi Anthony
Lets do the easy stuff first.

Flush the gas tank and add fresh gas.

Replace the air filter.

Its also possible that you have a partially sheared flywheel key.  That requires removing the flywheel and special tools.

Try the first two and lemme know what you want to do.