Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 14.5hp mtd rider wont turn over, engine model type, briggs and stratton

Question
I have a MTD Riding Mower with a 14.5 BRIGGS AND STRATTON motor that has been sitting all winter. I tried to start it for the first time and the motor will barely turn. I had the battery charged and checked to be good. Afterward I pulled out the spark plug and the motor turned like it is supposed to. I put a new plug in and the motor would barely turn. Do you have any suggestions?

Answer
Is the battery still charged?  Did you dis-connect the battery and clean the battery terminals and cable ends with a wirebrush?  Fixed a lot of mowers just by cleaning the connections.

Did oil or gas squirt out the spark plug hole with the spark plug removed?  

Remove the spark plug again and turn the engine over for about 15 seconds at a time.  Re-install spark plug and see if the engine will turn over.

How old is the battery?  Is the engine an L head or OHV engine?  If you send me the engine model, type and code number I can look up your engine.

Eric