This is what I think killed the Mayfair.
the inner clip that holds that 5mm piece of rod that is mounted on the lower barrel. It has failed and let the rod vibrate loose and I think it fell down and hit the base plate and was shot up piercing the inner side of the muffler.
See pic.missing rod and hole.....
Guess the mowers performance slowed a bit .

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I will put a bolt on there.
The barrel was smoothe and rings like new.
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I guess it was a 1971 model as this is on the barrel.
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Burned piston but rings are perfect. I will use them. Just clean up piston grooves , decoke exhaust port on barrel, no lip on barrel.
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Can't wait to start work tomorrow , but my neighbour wants me to mow and edge for christmas..... that will pay for a few beers that I use for inspiration..........
speedy

........................Keep your blades sharp......................