Briggs 16HP V-twin locking up??

[MartinD]

Have a Model 303447 Briggs V-twin . I bought it as a "runner" . Got it home and the flywheel would make about a 1/4 turn and stop. I figured it had thrown a rod. I pulled the side cover off and all looks well. It still locks but if you put a screwdriver on the flwheel with some pressure you hear a "tiney" noise and it will free up, spin and then lock again. Ideas??

 

[Fish]

Take the plugs out and turn the engine over by hand and see what you find.

 

[exotion]

Look in the plug hole while you do that see if you can see anything move.

 

[jhngardner367]

Check the air gap,to make sure the armatures (coils) aren't rubbing against the flywheel.