using the diff housing as jacking point isn't recommended either...

(use the axle, it takes the load easily)

I very much doubt it was engine internals.

If the exhaust had been blowing for some time, that alone could quite easily cause running poor enough to cause stalling. A leaking (air) carb is by far the most likely cause though.

If it's just the exhaust, that's well worth fixing. If it's super-rusty...maybe not!

cheers

James