I think I'm telling you right. Tecumseh has different keys that
advance different amounts. You must have the model number of your
motor to make sure you have the correct key.

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______________________________
Keep the whole world singing . . . .
DanG (remove the sevens)




"jacko" wrote in message
...
Following the comments I received, I did some re-checking. I
pulled the flywheel again and inspected the key and keyway. Both
were in good shape.
I pulled the head and cleaned away a little carbon. The valves
were working well.
I changed the spark plug to insure the correct one and gapped
it.
I reassembled and attempted to start it. The thing kicked back
and left me with a very sore finger.
While I had the head off, I noted a score in the cylinder wall.
Not really deep. I can't imagine what this might do to cause the
symptoms I have.
I'm baffled.


"jacko" wrote in message
...


I recently inherited a lawn mower with a 3.5 Tecumseh 4
stroke. I tried to start it and it kicked back hard. First time
it busted the pull cord. Second time it nearly pulled my finger
off.
I was sure that the flywheel key was sheared off and the timing
was off, but I checked that and that's not it. I reset the air
gap on the coil and still the same.
I did get it to start a couple of times and it runs great .
Shut it off and try to restart and the dam thing kicks back and
yanks the pull cord out of my hand violently.
Any suggestions?