Engine knocks when blades engaged

[dfor]

17 hp Kawasaki. Wright Velke mower. The engine knocks for a second when the blades are engaged (electric clutch). It happens when the engine is hot, and mostly after I dump the catcher and restart the blades.

Oil level is fine. Thanks for any thoughts.

[sawman65]

take a look at the upper main bearing, what you outlined is the first phase of that failure. whats happening is the flywheel is hitting the coils.

[Phil G]

17 hp Kawasaki. Wright Velke mower. The engine knocks for a second when the blades are engaged (electric clutch). It happens when the engine is hot, and mostly after I dump the catcher and restart the blades.

Oil level is fine. Thanks for any thoughts.

Just a thought. With the engine turned off, check the mounting bolts for the electric clutch, also the pulley on the end of the crankshaft. It might be a keyway opened up. Check engine mounting bolts and their condition, are they rubber mounted? Is the rubber torn?
Check all the items on this thread and check back,
atb Phil