Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Starting rope wont extend, yard machines, spark plug

Question
Hi there Michael,

I have a Yard Machines mower that I have owned for about 3 years now. I
didn't use it at all last year due to our living conditions. Anyway... this year
when I went to start it, the starting rope won't extend past maybe, 4 or 5
inches. I've checked the oil, the gas and the blades. The blades will rotate but
there's some resistance when they get to a certain point in the rotation. I
odn't know if I'm explaining this right, but I can't get it started if I can't get
the starting rope to extend all the way. Is something seized up? It feels like
it's just locked up or something. Thanks in advance.

Answer
Hi Zach,

One of several things may be causing this.  Starting with the easiest:  Remove the spark plug and try to pull it over.  This will eliminate an ignition timing issue.  Next, remove the recoil assembly and inspect it.   The rope may be jammed and easily freed up.  Finally, with the recoil and spark plug removed, try turning the engine over by hand with the blade.  

Let me know what you find.
Michael