The full crank was designed more for multipurpose use whereas the Powertorque was engineered as a dedicated mower engine without other uses in mind.
The tilt-a-cut was an afterthought repurposed use.
They don't like being started without a reciprocating mass a blade disc gives. I'd look for a full crank.

Ahh, if only victa had kept producing the thumblatch catcher series, they would be in better shape today!