Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh Sno King 10.5 HP engine wont start, hp engine, drive shaft

Question
Hi Michael,

I purchased a new snowblower last year. Worked great. Have used it a couple of times this year already. It is a tecumseh 10.5 HP engine sno king. Last night when I went to clear out my drive way I couldn't get it started. It was having trouble starting and then something odd happened. It sounded like there was no ignition and that the electric starter was trying to get it going, but nothing was spinning. Then I tried the pull cord and the pull cord was stuck. I went back out this morning and still no luck. Pull cord is still stuck and electric start won't work. Seems like it is seized or something? It is only a year old..any ideas as to what the problem could be? I removed the spark plug and tried the pull cord and it was still stuck. Let me know if you have any ideas. Thanks!

Greg

Answer
Hi Greg,

How is the oil level?  If it's okay, I would check the belts and remove the one connected to the drive shaft to isolate the snowblower from the engine.  Try cranking it over to see if things are free.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael