MTD model 317-140-372 snowblower. Was running fine. Stalled after being bogged down in heavy snow now won't restart. Only backfires through the carb after first few pulls. Changed the spark plug and checked for spark. Found slight restriction in the fuel tank. Removed fuel bowl from carb- all looks clean. Seems to be getting fuel and spark but no start. Any Ideas??

Hi,
Backfires generally mean timing is off and thereby a sheared flyweel key. Description fits:stopped suddenly, flywheel keeps moving and everything else stops.
Peace,
Clarke