Snow here in N.C. today. Time to go dig up some carrots. (so good under snow). Penny- too funny the fire story! I just go out side and take it as the fire clears the snow of the grill. George- sounds like you broke the shear pin on your mower. Not to tough to get to. Believe it or not, those engines won't run without a blade on the mower. With a broken shear pin it acts the same. Turn it over and see if the blade spins freely Take care. Craig Watts (long time observer)