Hey,
I got a MTD Yard Machines 21 ton splitter with 5HP Briggs. Yesterday I changed the hydro oil and filter. I went to start it and the rope pulled/motor turned totally normal and it coughed a little but never started. After about 50 pulls all of a sudden the pull rope locks up. It is in retract mode and I can get it to come out by pulling on it and retracting a little then more will come out. I pulled the plug to release any compression and that didn't change a thing besides me knowing why it didn't fire up. Nasty looking plug. I turned the coupler on the bottom and then I could turn motor some. I hit the lever in case there was pressure build up there. So, I know the motor isn't locked up or a knot in the rope, etc. Any ideas on what it might be? Pump locked up? It was pretty cold here yesterday as it never broke above freezing. Thanks.

 

If this started after the hydro oil change I would think you need to look there. You didn't say what engine you have but I would remove the recoil unit and make sure it is OK. There could be some air in the pump so maybe check for a bleed procedure. It may help us if you give some details like engine model and if the pump is direct drive or belt. If its a belt drive take the belt off and see what happens.

Networker

Is it paranoia if they really are after you?

 

Thanks for the input. Took the housing off, then it pulled fine so I put it back on. Got one pull out of it then it locked up again. Next day did the same thing only I lightly tapped with a hammer around the area where the pull cord prongs latch on to and turned the fly wheel many times. It worked. Not a problem since. I think the clutch was locked up.

 

If this engine has a ratchet clutch you need to oil it with something thin. There's a hole in the end of the clutch to oil through.

networker


Is it paranoia if they really are out to get you?