Sounds like the pawls aren't extending out. Take the recoil off and have a good look-see.... If that don't work, you could always resort to this method: It don't work either, but sure makes ya feel better!!!
That or your infrared thermometer should tell you what the problem is I read it on the internets so its gots to be true!!
Your balls are rusty, gunked & crusty! Do a Youtube search for "how to fix a starter clutch on a briggs and stratton engine", and the rope starter itself is probably fine.
True. First, take off the flywheel cover. There should be a 4 cornered crankshaft extension with a small hole in the end. This is the starter. Oil generously and flip the mower over on it's side (carb up). Try spinning it with your fingers. If there's no grip on the crankshaft your balls are stuck. Rotate the starter SLOOOOWLY so the oil can get all the way around. Light hammer taps may loosen the balls up. Ladies go easy. If that doesn't work take off the screen and gently tap on the lugs that the screen screws go into and turn off the starter. It turns off counterclockwise when you're facing the flywheel side of the engine. Replace the starter if oil and a big hammer doesn't loosen it up.
I've got a similar gunked up balls issue. On my motorcycle's clutch release actuator. A good scrubbing will degunkify the whole deal. I just have to get all 11, yes 11 little balls in their places, at the same time. Eric VW , do you want a picture? Lol
Had to clean those many times to get it working, actually you don't want any oil in there. fine dust will get in there and gunk it up again. I always left em dry.
That was mower abuse........I'd hate to be one of her kids. She obviously has anger management issues.
Ya, I think that her thoughts just might be energetic in their own way.... I think most of us here if we tossed something would stop realizing that if we break something else that we would have to fix that too OR we would do a better job of completely destroying.
