2003 LT2000 Intek V Twin 22hp Problem

[nhseller]

I was mowing early this past season with my 13 year old Craftsman when I hit a wellhead cap that was just protruding from the ground. I knew it was there and thought I would clear it but the deck was just low enough that I hit it. The engine stalled but restarted. A few minutes later the engine began knocking and losing power. I shut it down and restarted it but same issue so I pulled it next to my garage and parked it.

I suspect connecting rod damage. Am I on the right track? Anything else? How easy would this be to repair?

I ended up going to my local Tractor Supply and buying a new Cub Cadet XT1 but I also use my Craftsman with a snow blower attachment so I would like to repair it and dedicate just for winter use.

Thanks for any suggestions.

 

[davesl708]

Before I would go any farther I would check the key on the flywheel to see if it is partially sheared. This would through it out of time and cause some rough running.

 

[nhseller]

Before I would go any farther I would check the key on the flywheel to see if it is partially sheared. This would through it out of time and cause some rough running.

Thanks for the info. I will check that out.