You are right of course. The problem that I have, started suddenly. This
mower was being started and used by a kid. It was used earlier this year. No
one had the flywheel off before me.Also there are no markings on the motor
or mower bed which makes it difficult to identify the model. I suspect it is
destined for the parts box.

"DanG" wrote in message
...
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.

--
______________________________
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?