[Shop-talk] Lawn mower engine & blade question

[Wayne]

Hi Guys,
I have a simple MTD push lawn mower (that I use to mow around my shop) 
with a B&S engine and 22" blade.  Today I nailed a small tree stump with 
it.  Usually you just "graze" things and it somehow survives when you 
lift off it.  Not this time.  The engine stopped instantly.  The tip of 
the blade, about 3" back, is bent 90 degrees downward!

Is there any chance I damaged the engine?  Is it ok to start it with the 
blade off, just to see if it runs ok?  (don't know if it depends on the 
blade as a flywheel, or needs it as a load.)

-Thanks, Wayne