I have a hayter mower with a briggs and stratton 375 engine. I went to start it last night, when i pulled the starter cord it seemed to jam, hence the engine wouldn't start. As soon as i take the cord cover off the cord retracts. Would this be something to do with the main spindle, if so how do i get this out?
The only thing i have changed on the mower is the spark plug, and it has been working fine up until now!

Matt Wren, June 2008

not sureon the type of starter you have, but if there is a square shaped spindle that fits into a hole on the starter pulley, then it is likely the starter clutch is sticking. it is a small housing dscrewed onto the crankshaft that uses ball bearings on a cam race. when worn they can stick. if you do not have a square shaped spindle then disregard this and i will think of something else.

dustydes, June 2008