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anniebelle1 · Aug 1, 2009, 04:50 PM

It was working fine, then stalled, and when I tried to restart it, a loud bang was all that would happen. The motor seems to be turning over, but won't start, just horrible bang. The first bang blew the plug wire off, so I put it back on, and still, just turns over and BANG:eek:

crigby · Aug 1, 2009, 05:07 PM

Hi,
I would guess you have a Kohler single cylinder Command engine, and that it has sheared the flywheel key. That throws the timing off and you get the bang when it fires at the wrong time.
Peace,
Clarke

anniebelle1 · Aug 2, 2009, 02:36 PM

I just got this machine back from the shop, they replaced a belt, and a sheared off spindle, I can't believe I broke it already, it ran fine, was almost done with the yard, went through some taller grass and stalled, so, back to the shop I suppose?

crigby · Aug 2, 2009, 06:30 PM

Hi,
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. You did not say if you had a Kohler.
On the "good news" side, you say a sheared off spindle? Think that maybe this is something they might have thought to check first go 'round? The newer engines will have fire any time the magnets pass the ignition, does not matter where everything else in the engine is. The EPA has made the engine manufacturers build in spark advances, etc. into their ignitions so that they will run out-of-time; just less that their best.
If you have to make a second trip; I believe I would speak to the owner. Sounds as if you had a part replaced that could have started this damage/condition. A good dealer will "work" with you to keep you a customer. Do remember though that what you do not pay may well come out of his own pocket, so be informed, diplomatic and friendly. Try to make him/her realize you have made two trips, when one may have been all you needed, and that it may have needed to be checked the first time.
Above all, remember that "you draw more flies with honey tha vinegar," and give the dealer the "chance" to satisfy your complaint.
I could write a tome to how to deal with different power equipment dealers; some can be hateful, others unpleasant, others unyielding, and many other possibilities. Some are "the salt of the Earth."
I wish you good luck, and it does sound as if you deserve some understanding for the second trip!
Peace,
Clarke

anniebelle1 · Aug 2, 2009, 06:52 PM

Thanks for your response, I think it's a Briggs and stratton engine, I just don't understand how I mowed the whole lawn with no trouble, then stalled it, and now , once again, I have a lovely red lawn ornament in the middle of my back yard, it has 42" double blades deck, I checked the fuel filter, there appeared to be some sediment in it, so I cleaned that out. Im ready to buy a goat, can't really afford any more #$$ into this tractor. Its less than 6 yrs old, and the bill to repair the spindle and replace the belt was nearly $400.oo. I could have bought a brand new push mower for that and been done with this nightmare. Anyhow, thank you for your more elaborate response.

crigby · Aug 2, 2009, 07:21 PM

Hi,
The Briggs is even more likely to run when out of time. I do understand much of the different sides of it. I have non-mechanically inclined parents, brothers and sisters.
I do think you ought to speak with the dealer, maybe on the phone first to see what kind of "reception" you will get. Maybe a new spark plug first would not hurt, just in case. Gap to 0.030"
Peace,
Clarke