Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman walk behind mower (B&S engine) problems, shoulder workout, professional mechanic

Question
Hi John,

I suspect I fried my mower, and I want to know if the repair is something I should consider taking on or is this definitely in the realm of the professional mechanic.

Here's the scoop: The mower (7.5hp walk behind) has been unused collecting dust in the garage for 3 years.  I took it out, hosed it off, filled the tank (which I presume to have been empty, what I could see was dry) with fresh gas, turned it on it's side to drain as much oil as I could, put fresh oil in, and pulled the cord to start her up.  Nothing.  Pulled many times, got nothing but a good shoulder workout.

I checked the air filter, and it was pretty clean.  I confirmed that the spark plug had the removable connection attached.

Next day, for some reason I couldn't really say, I decided to give it another go.  This time, I overpumped the little red push button that you're supposed to hit 3 times to prime the gas into the engine.  When I primed it 10 times or so, and then pulled the cord, she started up.  But only for a second.  I did this a few times, each time she started up for a second and then shut down.  Right up until the last time I did it.  Something else happened then, but I don't know what.  But when I tried to start her up again, I couldn't - the rope wouldn't budge.  It can't be pulled at all.

So how badly did I screw this engine up?  Can I fix it myself (and I realize how absurd this question is based on everything I've told you so far!!)?  If not, any idea what a reasonable cost should be for somebody qualified to do it?

Thanks so much in advance!

Gary

Answer
 Hello Gary:

 Let do some Diagnostics. 1- Remove the Spark Plug. 2- Follow the Engine Brake/Shut off Cable to the Engine. Remove the Cover for the Engine Brake/Shut off. Move the Engine Brake/Shut off Lever. Is the Engine Brake Releasing? If Yes, then Try to turn the Engine by Hand using the Blade to Work the Engine Back and Forth. If Still Frozen, Remove the Blower Housing (metal engine cover). Try to turn the Engine Again. Does it Turn? If no the Engine may have a Broken Ring. If Yes the Starter Recoil has Locked up. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John