Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): tecumseh 10hp snow king snowblower, friction disc, bottom pan

Question
Snowblower won't go into gear. It was working fine and half way through blowing snow in driveway it won't go into gear and move. What should I check for. This was always husbands area of work but since he is not here anymore have no idea what I should do? Any advice would be appreciated.

Answer
This is a common problem.  After sitting over the year, the shaft that the friction disc slides on for speed / direction control and the friction disc carriage become stuck together.    Do not try to force it to move with the linkage as you will only bend the linkage.  The bottom pan needs to be removed (4 bolts usually) to gain access to the drive mechanism.  Then you can use a block of wood and hammer to tap on the drive carrier (in a beefy spot) to get it moving.  Once you have it moving, make sure you put a light coating of grease on the shaft (some models have a grease fitting on the drive carrier).  Re-install the pan.  If you are having a shop do this repair, you may also well go for their "tune-up special" as they will free up and lubricate this as part of process.  Hope this helps.