Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 3.8hp techumsh wont start and stalls, go cart, recoil

Question
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Followup To
Question -
hi i have a 3.8 hp Victa (techumsh engine)
it is hard to start usally and it kicks alot and also starts then stalls 2 secs later it takes 5 mins to get going properly. cheers
Nathan
Answer -
Hi Nathan,

I suspect a partially sheared flywheel key.  Does it kick back and try to pull the recoil handle out of your hand?  Was an object hit while mowing?  Is or was the blade loose?

Michael

yes it does pull the cord out of my hand some times others it starts fine oh and when warm starts every time  is this a problem it also is a rough idler and i have never mown with it my sisters boyfriend picked it up from the tip (he works at) 4 me to put on a go cart the former owner might have and there is no blade and it is a slightly rough idler and sounds like a harley daviston at full throttle is their any thing wrong or is it just an old engine (10 yrs) thanxs

Nathan

Answer
Hi Nathan,

The kicking back is an ignition timing problem that may be caused by a loose flywheel or a sheared flywheel key. I would remove the flywheel and take a look or just replace the engine.

Let me know if you proceed with the repair and need more info.

Michael