Engine will crank then stop, or will not crank at all unless I remove the 4 screws , take off screen protector on top of engine and turn the fins by hand about a 1/4 turn or so and try to start again. Then it starts. Seems like something needs to be lined up and does not line up by it self.

Mike, January 2011

I have the same motor you probly shereed the pin on it. pull the spindal and check because that is what keeps it lined uo

alan, March 2011

This sounds like either a starter motor or flywheel ring gear problem. Firstly check the wiring between the solenoid and the starter motor for security of connections. Remove the spark plug and top screen to make it easier to turn the engine by hand. remove the starter motor and check the condition of the plastic sprocket. If it has missing teeth or does not move easily up and down the spiral replace it.
with the starter motor removed, check the ring gear on the flywheel for distortion and missing teeth. if damaged, the cheapest answer is a second hand flywheel. finally, the brushes in the starter motor may be worn, necessitating replacement of the motor assembly

graham, January 2011