6 HP tecumseh PROBLEMS?

[Blazkowiez]

I've seen several dozen keys shear in Tecumseh engines, many years they switched from steel keys to aluminum keys, the cheap aluminum key does occasionally shear (yes, often times from user error but also just from how weak the material is and simple wear).

Its something that happens, thats why I just asked if he would look at it given what engine he has and what the problems seem to be. I'd be saying the same thing if he had a newer Briggs lawnmower and he happened to hit a large rock and it was giving the same results when attempting to start (they're using aluminum keys these days).

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Aluminum keys? Is that supposed to be an engineered failsafe? Can't think of why else they'd want to do that...

 

[Russ2251]

I have purposely run some of my engines without keys with no ill effect.

 

[Bluethunder3320]

I have purposely run some of my engines without keys with no ill effect.

you ran an engine with no key?

 

[Russ2251]

you ran an engine with no key?

Many times and is common to do so.
With your apparent experiences, I am quite surprised you have not heard of this practice.

 

[Bluethunder3320]

why would you though

 

[Russ2251]

To adjust timing for max output.
No need to waste $$$ on advance timing keys.

 

[Bluethunder3320]

oh... i get it. but i can see it slipping over time.

 

[Russ2251]

Not unless flywheel nut is improperly torqued or you are running direct drive and planning on slamming into a nuclear reactor.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

running direct drive and planning on slamming into a nuclear reactor.

Now that would be stupid. Nobody plans on slamming into a nuclear reactor!

(dang. I wish there was a "mushroom cloud" emoticon available to us)

 

[Blazkowiez]

So, OP did you get a chance to check that engine for the key?

 

[Russ2251]

Now that would be stupid. Nobody plans on slamming into a nuclear reactor!

Do I look like a guy with a plan???
Sorry for the OTP...I couldn't resist.