Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): toro mower, compression release, key start

Question
Good Day,
I have a Toro Lawn Mower Model 20074 Serial NO. 270075530 with a battery/key start.  I purchased it in 6/07.  At the end of the season last year, the battery didn't seem to hold a charge.  It would start the first few times (stop frequently to empty the bag) then would no longer turn over.  I would try to pull start it but very difficult and often had to wait 10 to 15 min and then I could pull start it.  Almost felt like it was meeting resistance if I tried to pull start too soon.  Could it be I need to replace the battery at this point?
Thank you for your advice.

Answer
Janet,

I looked up your mower a few minutes ago and I would say that it sounds like its time to replace the battery.  However I am a little concerned about the "resistance" you mention.  I am wondering if the flywheel brake is dragging or you could have an internal engine problem such as a broken compression release.

If it was my machine I would try a battery and if that didn't resolve it, have a qualified service technician take a look at it.  I will say you have gotten your life out of your battery.  Something else I would be curious to know is if your charger that came with the mower is still working and actually charging the battery..(I have seen bad chargers) and if the charging system on the engine is actually charging the battery.

I hope this helps.  Sorry for the delay getting back to you, but at last count there were nearly 400 mowers in line to be repaired.