Pull start won't pull - antique engine

Hello, I wasn't very successful searching for info and found this site. Pictures attached on what I have. I bought this 40 years ago for my 14 foot rowboat - never used either. The motor was running but don't recall if it was running by the seller or if I did it myself. Kinda think the former now as I do not have a gas tank. Don't think I would have taken it off. I think I could hook up a gas reservoir just to get it going and worry about a tank later, but the top cord pull doesn't pull. I did not want to take it apart not knowing what I was getting into. I did read someplace that if something wasn't in the correct position , it would not pull. Anyone know about this engine? The writing on top: Johnson Motor Company: Waukegon, Ill USA SeriaL 147022 a-50 model.
Thanks

It should turn without anything fancy that needs to be in the right position.----Visit----aomci-----For top notch help.

Agree with above. You will likely find a tank there as well. Can you turn the flywheel by hand or is frozen up?

Thank you for the resource. Correct, I cannot spin the flywheel by hand nor does it budge with a cord. I wasn't sure if I could just take the three screws off on top and maybe that nut - all of them I've been able to turn - but did not know if just the top comes off just exposing the innards or will stuff pop out at me? thanks

I think you remove the flywheel by loosening the nut.----No puller required.-----And nothing will jump at you either.

Shoot transmission fluid into the spark plug hole and let it soak.

racerone said:

I think you remove the flywheel by loosening the nut.----No puller required.-----And nothing will jump at you either.

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okay, encouraging.,

DeepCMark58A said:

Shoot transmission fluid into the spark plug hole and let it soak.

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thanks - don't know why I didn't think of that.