Ariens snow blower-Accurate Problem assessment/repair service

Does anyone know of a safety switch related to the auger belt that may keep the engine from starting or stalling?
A mechanic insists my problem with starting an Ariens Snow Blower was somehow related to the auger belt. I buried the auger in a dense snow-bank when it stalled; it started after resting about 20 minutes but died just seconds later and would not start again…
All I can think of is something related to the auger belt or engagement mechanism that may have been bent, out of adjustment, etc that falsely signals a tensioned auger belt suitable to engage the auger drive (set to turn); perhaps, under these conditions, the machine may not be safe and a safety switch does not allow the engine to start.

None of these assumptions square with stalling but any input would be appreciated…

Short of a first hand examination, a long shot diagnosis would be that you sheared the flywheel key on the crankshaft. A two dollar investment for a new key. It's just a guess but the condition you described as hitting deep snow hard fits. My Ariens although not the same model as yours has no safety switches.Good luck!