Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn mower starter cord, spark plug wire, starter cord

Question
Hi!

My gas lawn mower conked out and when I tried to pull the cord to restart it would not budge. What do you suggest that I try to do? I will turn the blade to see if that has any effect.

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Ian,

The thing we need to determine is, whether the recoil rope is jammed or the engine is seized.  Also, the flywheel key might have sheared, making turning over hard but not frozen solid...(Was an object struck while mowing, just before?)
Remove the spark plug wire before turning the blade (in each direction.) to see if the engine is free.  If so, remove the recoil housing from the engine and inspect the rope assembly.

Let me know what you find.
Michael