Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman lawnmower, briggs stratton, steering wheel puller

Question
Craftsman Lawnmower
model# 917.252451
Briggs&Stratton motor
model# 289707
style 0168 01
code 0823956 013554 (these were a bit worn, so I'm not sure if they're completely accurate).

I hit a big hole in lawn and lawnmower quit working.  Engine still starts fine and sounds the same as always, but when I attempt to engage either blade drive belt or wheel drive belt engine stalls out.

Answer
 Hello Tom:

 If Nothing is Bent or Binding, then Check or Replace the Flywheel Key. Go to this Addy http://www.partstree.net/parts.asp and Click Parts look up. Thne Enter the Model Number. Then Scroll to Model Number 289707-0168 and Click on it. Now Click on the Illustrated Parts Lists. Then Click on the Flywheel and Rewind Starter. This Gives a Breakdown of the Flywheel and Key. The Flywheel Key is Most Likely Damaged and Has the Plug Firing at the Wrong Time in Conjunction with the Piston Location During the Compression Stroke, Resulting in Power Loss. You will Need a Steering Wheel Puller and Hammer to Remove the Flywheel. Attach the Puller and Apply Pressure, Then Hit the Puller with the Hammer to Jar the Flywheel and the Crankshaft. Repeat this Process Until the Flywheel Pops Loose and can be Lifted Off the Crankshaft. The Key Lines the Crankshaft with the Flywheel. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please. I enjow knowing the Outcome. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John