I have had a couple like that as well Norm.
Its a shame people just throw them away without basic trouble shooting - they are amongst the best mowers (albeit noisy) you can get.
Pulling down that briggs quantum makes me really appreciate the simplicity of the PT - 3 bolts and the cowl is off to put a new cord in. Quantum is 2 plastic covers, 5-10 screws and cowl bolts, remove dipstick housing, etc
