[Ponchez]

Im working on a 6.0hp craftsman walk behind, when I let go of the dead man handle it "thumps" a few times and then stops. The thumps shear off the fly wheel key and last time tore the blade adaptor key off. The shaft is strain and the blade is balanced. Its ripped of the flywheel key 3 or 4 times now. I dont know what else to try. Any ideas? it's a Tecumseh engine. thanks

 

[Brad]

I would take the cover off and see what the brake is doing to the flywheel. maybe something broke off it and is locking up the flywheel. Then, see what happens as you slowly release the handle. Is it allowed too much slack from the cable? Maybe an adjustment so that the brake just touches the flywheel firmly. Also, make sure that the grounding wire is in the correct position so the mower doesn't try to continue running.

 

[Mark / Ohio]

.. Also, make sure that the grounding wire is in the correct position so the mower doesn't try to continue running.

Exactly what I was thinking. Brake on while the ignition is still energized.