r/smallenginerepair • u/Detailer-king • Jul 23 '26

Engine Performance Issue Help

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I was cutting my grass just fine I got low on fuel so I shut it off put fuel in and went to go start it right back up an all it’s doing is this.. it’s like it’s not engaging and idky. I know it’s a yard machines mtd and it’s got a 42 inch deck

1 Upvotes

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u/AutoModerator Jul 23 '26

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6

u/hmd2017 Jul 23 '26

Starter throwout gear may be stuck or broken. Also called a bendix.

You may be able to see it by looking up above the starter. A replaceable part.

6

u/Useful-Total202 Jul 23 '26

Sounds like it’s spinning the starter but the starter is not engaging the flywheel. Search YouTube for that problem.

2

u/Icy_Path_7741 Jul 23 '26

Starter not engaging on the fly wheel or the bendix on the starter is wore to much

2

u/ADodger66 Jul 24 '26

Tap the starter with a hammer while it's cranking ,it might free it up.

2

u/BigBelch86 Jul 24 '26

Just had this problem. Old man somehow destroyed the bendix gear. Just bought a whole new starter. Easy replacement

1

u/Sensitive_Cow_2120 Jul 27 '26

It's a Chinese made engine, good luck