loud metallic scraping noise after blade change – Honda HRD536c (1998) Roto-Stop issue?

Where is the rest of the Roto Stop mechanism? There's a lot more there than what your pic shows.....

 
As this occurred at blade change, my guess is a misaligned (or jammed) Roto-Stop Blade Brake Clutch assembly.

(From the written) "Because the Roto-Stop clutch is a heavy, spring-loaded mechanical system, any excessive upward pressure or misalignment during a blade change can compress the unit incorrectly, forcing independent components to grind against one another or binding the crankshaft entirely."

You will likely need to back off the central bolt completely to pop the clutch assembly off the crankshaft splines. Inspect the keyways and plates for fresh score marks. And as other have said, If the central bearing feels loose, gritty, or has visible metal shavings inside, it must be replaced.

 
Please do not take offense, but did you put the blade on upside down? My brother could not fix his BBC Honda of same vintage as yours. Motor seemed to be locked up. He gave me the mower for parts. When I got it I noticed that the blade had been recently sharpened and was on upside down. I removed the blade and the recoil starter rope easily spun the engine. Put the blade on the right way and all was well. I think when the blade was upside down that the clutch stayed engaged. Bro is an Ivy League grad but he shares some of the same dumbassery DNA that I have.
 
Back
Top