[drh4683]

LawnBoys are the best mower ever made, the OMC ones at least. The cast magnesium and aluminum decks were the best. If oiled properly, they can last 40 years if you take care of it. Most of the time, people dont realize the exhaust ports can be cleaned and crank seals be replaced. If thats maintained they will run forever.
Bryan, if you have recoil issues, you might have a broken recoil spring its p/n 602610 and is the most costly part on the machine! You can buy them at rcpw.com for $64! The C series was discontinued in 1970. Carb parts ignition parts are all still out there. Recoil springs generally dont break and is somewhat rare. Make sure everything is well lubricated.
If the recoil spring is good and you are still having problems, the centrifugal catch pin on the flywheel is probably stuck inside the starter dog. The centrifugal pin on the flywheel is to be outside the starter dog (starter dog is a 4 sided sprocket part of the recoil spool). If the pin is inside, then thats the problem! Once you look at it, you will see how it works. Its common and happens easily if not watched when reassembling. If you have some time to go over the mower, just email me. Ive worked on many of these mowers.