Worn out (apparently) Craftsman selfpropelled 6.5hp mower

[carpetmaster]

I have a 8 year old (approximately) 6.5 hp self propelled Craftsman mower that "kicks back" violently when I try to crank it. I hit a stump with it a month ago and bent the blade very bad! I replaced the blade and saw no evidence of shaft problems as the mower cranked and mowed as before. any suggestions? The upper frame is rusted through in a space about the size of a golf ball. Should I just I purchase a replacement or try to get this one through the summer?

 

[Briana]

Welcome to LawnWorld!

We moved your thread to the Craftsman forum.

 

[ILENGINE]

Most likely issue is an offset or sheared flywheel key.

 

[DJlawnboy]

I have a 8 year old (approximately) 6.5 hp self propelled Craftsman mower that "kicks back" violently when I try to crank it. I hit a stump with it a month ago and bent the blade very bad! I replaced the blade and saw no evidence of shaft problems as the mower cranked and mowed as before. any suggestions? The upper frame is rusted through in a space about the size of a golf ball. Should I just I purchase a replacement or try to get this one through the summer?

Just bite the bullet and new a new mower...this one sounds pretty bad.