Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): TORO, engine model type, spec number

Question
I have a 1991 TORO CCR POWERLITE (single stage) snow blower.  It has both a manual and an electric start.  My problem is the electric start which operates by connecting it to AC power.  This morning I plugged it in, primed it, choked it, turned the key on, and push the start button.  It seemed like it was trying to start for about 1-2 seconds and then, almost like it slipped out of gear, it just made a “whirring” sound.  I tried to start it again and same thing happened.  

At some point, I heard something drop to the ground and I found a small plastic cup-shaped part under the snow blower (it looks like a large thimble, black in color, about size of my thumb).  I  don't know if this is part of the snowblower or what.  However, I was able to start the engine manually using the pull start.

Would have any idea what might be going on here?  I seems to me that my electric start is not functioning.  Could you give me some guidance as to what the problem might be and how I might be able to fix it?  THANK YOU VERY MUCH.  --- Ed


Answer
If you remove the engine shroud cover you can gain access to the starter.  It sounds like the part that fell off is from the top of the starter.  With the shroud removed you can inspect the starter.  Make sure the starter gear and flywheel gear are not stripped.

Some starter gears can be difficult to install.  If in doubt, you can remove the starter and take it to you local small engine repair shop to have it repaired.  Make sure you take the engine model, type and spec number with you.

Let me know what you find.
Eric