Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere LA140, running briggs and stratton 23 HP. Model 445577-0110-E1, briggs and stratton, electric clutch


Question
John Deere LA140, running briggs and stratton 23 HP.  Model 445577-0110-E1

I went through the process on a blog from John.  No power to one cylinder (right side).  Replaced fuel filter, plugs, and coil.  Both the coil and the plug have a great spark.  When I pull the left hand side wire from the plug, engine dies.  Also, the right hand plug is "cold" to the touch even after the engine is running for a few minutes.  Seems like fuel is making it to that cylinder, plug is slightly damp, but not saturated.

John was mentioning in a previous blog to another person that the next step might be the valve on that cylinder.  What am I getting myself into and what is the process and instructions for checking this out?  I have less then 50 hours on this machine and have always babied it.  Yes, I know, this model has issues from a John Deere perspective, but I didn't think I would have any issues with the Briggs and Stratton.  Overall issue is that when I engage the blades, it bogs down so far that it usually dies.  I don't think it is the electric clutch or the spindles, everything is turning smoothly one it gets up to speed.  I have even removed the belt from the clutch to check the mower spindles, everything seems OK.  Appreciate any help you can provide, but once I start tearing into the cylinder, I am going to need some help.  No specs, no diagrams, no torque instructions.  Anything you can do is appreciated, my next step is taking it in, which may be your answer.  Please advise,  Chris

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Answer
From the low power issue it might be due to the non-firing cylinder.  As a quick next step, I'd remove each spark plug and check the engine compression.  Briggs does not publish actual compression specs but both cylinders should be within 10%.  If one cylinder is 100 psi the other should be 90-110 psi, 10%.

Take a look at the link below and see if it helps with checking the valves.

Eric