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The 17HP B&S Intec engine on my Scotts lawn tractor has locked up. It will not go past top dead center. I would like to know what could cause this. Thank you.

Remove the sparkplug and try turning it over... :smile:KennyV

It sound to me like something on top of the piston. Remove the head after you removed the spark plug. You might be lucky and find a problem with the spark plug but doubtful.

Liquid (like raw gasoline) in the cylinder will push out of the spark plug hole... :smile:KennyV

KennyV said:

Liquid (like raw gasoline) in the cylinder will push out of the spark plug hole... :smile:KennyV

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Yes very possible. Don't stand in front of the plug hole when you turn the engine over. Been there and did that.

And do not let the plug wire hang in front of the plug hole. Makes a good flame thrower.

I'd take the plug out and turn it slowly, not spin it. Maybe put a small screwdriver on top of the piston and turn it by hand and see if it moves. Could be a rod cap partially off the journal and hanging by one bolt allowing it to clear on one side of the connecting rod but not the other. Hope it's not serious.

Before you strip anything you are better checking valve clearances.

If its not valve clearances it could be the decompressor has broken on the cam shaft.

Servicing The Valves
Info at bottom link how to adjust valves.
Intake 0.003"-0.005" exhaust 0.005"-0.007"

Also could be needle not sealing in carb allowing fuel to migrate to cylinder.