Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Snow blower pull start problem, craftsman snowblower, 3000gt vr

Question
Michael,
I have a brand new 9HP Craftsman snowblower; tecumseh
engine.  This morning, I went outside to blow the snow.  I
set the choke, set the throttle to HIGH, gave a couple
primes, and I gave a little tug on the pull start rope and the
engine started beautifully.  Nothing out of the ordinary on
start up or while it was running.  

Later, after I got home from work (about 9 hours later), I go
to start it again to blow the snow (I live in western New York
right off Lake Ontario).  But now, when I pull on the starter
rope, it pulls out, and recoils back, but it is not turning the
engine.  Almost as if its not turning the crank.  There is
little to no resistance when pulling on the rope, but it
recoils fine.  I am able to start the engine just fine with the
electric starter.

What could be wrong?  Feel free to be as technical as you
wish.  I am the local AllExpert volunteer for Mitsubishi
repair, so I know about engines, but not much about snow
blowers.  THANKS!!

Answer
Hi Anthony,

The problem is most likely in the bendix drive, located under the recoil hub.  You will need to remove the recoil assembly and disassemble the bendix.  It may be frozen or gummed up.  Clean all the parts, coat with a light oil and re-assemble.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael

I used to have a 3000GT VR-4.  I loved it and miss it.