What is this?

[joshuam]

Hey everybody. My first post here.

I'm working on a long-running Poulan/Electrolux P4TN20SA push mower with a Tecumseh LV148EA engine on it. I just started diagnosing the issue when I came across the following:



2 questions:

1) What exactly is this? It looks like either some sort of grounding apparatus or blade brake. The incoming cable is attached to the lever, however the lever pulls very hard and there aren't any moving parts to this piece that I've been able to discern.

2) Is it supposed to be this shape? It looks quite bent.

This is the first time I've come across an issue like this. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks much.

 

[Fish]

That is your blade/brake that has been wired open, likely because the cable is bad and they wanted to sell it cheap/quick.

 

[Fish]

take off that twisty metal crap, and you will see how it works.

 

[joshuam]

Alright, so I'm at least on the right track. Thanks guys.

 

[twinfords]

it is the safety for not being able to start the mower with out the blade brake handle being depressed on the handle bar, the cable is probably broke and someone wired the mechanism open, with it like this the mower will start at all times but will not shut off unless you pull the plug wire. dangerous and not compliant these days,