They are so simple, you could rebuild it (the engine) yourself. There are plenty of people here who could advise you. Parts are mostly easily obtainable. Most probably new crankshaft seals, clean the carb, and a few other minor things will get it working great, but the labor cost to have it done might be close to the cost of a new mower, if you chose to not do it yourself.

Remove the blade, blade hub and muffler. You should see the piston through three small holes, if they are plugged with carbon it won't run. Use a wood dowel or even a pencil to clean the openings, NOT a screwdriver which will damage the piston. If the piston is badly scored or galled it will need to be rebuilt.

Thanks for all your positive comments. I have rebuilt many 4 cycle engines from lawnmowers to small block Chevys, but never a two cycle. My concerns come from reading how important it is to seal up the casings tightly and the governor adjustments as it affects the carburation. I have the engine completely disassembled and plan to lightly hone the cylinder, replace the piston, rings, wrist pin bearings, rod bearing, all gaskets and seals, reed valves and carburetor rebuild. I've downloaded the service manual on this engine and will follow its procedures. The governor adjustment is my main concern as I won't have the special tool required. Does anyone have any recommendations as to the best place to get quality parts.

"The governor adjustment is my main concern as I won't have the special tool required. "

Just bend the governor arm until the carb butterfly arm is at about 11 o'clock position when not running.

Walt Conner