Snapper Mower riding mower will not start. Starter will not engage flywheel, just spins and whirs.?

Question

Older Snapper Mower Model 3311X5S; serial 63139828 mower will not start. Starter 8609361 Briggs& Stratton 11 HP engine # 253707 type 0159-01, code 8511211. Any ideas on what to do to get it to start. Battery is charged. In park, with blade in off position.

Answer 1

Pull the spark plug and put your finger in the hole.  Turn the motor over and you will feel a sucking sensation if the rings are any good.  

Hold the spark plug wire an inch away form a meal surface.  If no visible spark you ignition coil is out.    

Your local auto parts store sell small motor repair manuals along side of the car repair manuals.  

Answer 2

try to adjust your starter!..it may have become loss and is not in the right position to ingage!..if thats not it it could very well be you need a new starter!

Answer 3

Replace the starter drive gear.

Answer 4

check the gear on the starter. My mower did the same thing and when i inspected the starter motor the gear was PLASTIC and completely shredded where it engages in the flywheel.

Answer 5

YA,

EITHER HAVE THE BEDIX REPLACED,OR BUY A NEW STARTER(BENDIX)IS THE SPRING LOADED SHAFT W/A GEAR THAT TURNS ONE WAY,IT COULD BE THE SPRING,OR IT COULD BE THE PIN THAT HOLDS THE SHAFT&GEAR TOGETHER,OR IT COULD BE THE GEAR ITSELF BAD.ANY OF THE ABOVE WILL PREVENT THE STARTER FROM ENGAGEING THE FLYWHEEL.