Got a stubborn old harrier 48. 219 pre opc model.

[Gregs mowing]

Hello Mick.
Firstly can't work out how to make a new post so replying to this.

Got a stubborn old harrier 48. 219 pre opc model.

Mower came in. Wouldn't start. So cleaned the carb. New plug and filter. Usual stuff. When I pull it no sign of life. And noticed the flywheel kept spinning. Is this normal as it has no brake?
Tried to attach pics but iPhone pics are soo large it seems. Will send on insta some pics.

Odd to get no sign of life despite cleaning carb thoroughly. New plug too.

[Mick]

Greg, I'll split the post into a new topic when I get home.

So has the machine got a spark? If yes then have you tried squirting a little fuel directly into the air intake to see if it fires? If it fires and stops then clean fuel system. If it doesn't fire check plug or coil. 

Assuming it hasn't got a stuck valve etc.

[Gregs mowing]

Hi Mick.

Yes tried spraying carb cleaner into carb. Nothing happened.  Was wondering if it's the piston rings? As the engine keeps spinning after pulling rope. It turns quite freely. And the blade spins at the same time so don't think flywheel key?

[Mick]

Sounds like either a stuck valve or it's thrown the conrod if the engine is spinning over really freely.

Check the piston is going up and down.  You can get the head off in two minutes if you want to go that route.

[Mick]

OK, so looking at your latest message on insta, I can confirm it's thrown the conrod.