Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh OHV 130 compression release problem?, pressure release valve, google search

Question
I have kept my 1984 Toro self-propelled running for 26 years. I bought a used MTD (Montgomery Wards) 38" rider in 1990 and have kept it going as well. I re-engined the MTD less than ten years ago with a Tecumseh 13hp OHV130. The last few years it's had a recurring problem I can't solve. The engine's starter will often stall at the top of the compression stroke when I try to start it. Good battery (jumped to auto often), valves set properly (checked and rechecked), starter replaced and armature/brushes,drive, etc good). It doesn't stall at TDC all the time, but now it has very frequent. If I do manage to get the engine running, the rest of the day it operates normally, no stalling on compression stroke when starting. The next day (when cool?) the problem recurs.

I've been reading online and spoke with a local repair shop. It certainly sounds like the compression release is malfunctioning. I found a discussion online how to set the valves, and check, but if there's a separate pressure release valve (discussion called it a PTO), I don't know where it is. I was thinking the intake valve might briefly open slightly at TDC on compression, but it doesn't move at all during that cycle. I need to get this mower starting dependably and running for just one more year when I'll be moving and won't have two large adjacent yards to cut.

I saw your earlier posts in a Google search. Thanks for any help.

Bill
Austin, TX

Answer
Hello Bill:

>>From your Description it Sounds like the Compression Release Inside the Engine has Broken/Worn Down.
>>According to the Breakdown for this Engine, the Compression Release is a Part of the Cam and May be Worn to the Point it Cannot Open the Valve Slightly as it was Designed.
>>Since this is a Tecumseh Engine, I have a PDF Site Addy that May Assist you. http://www.tecumsehpower.com/CustomerService/BSI.pdf  .  
>>This Site Addy; http://www.outdoordistributors.com/Tecumseh/tmain.html has a Link to a PDF Trouble-Shooting Guide. Simply Select the Free PDF Download for the Tecumseh Trouble-Shooting Guide.
>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the T. Then Select Tecumseh. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Enter the Model Numbers OHV130. Then Select your Model and Download the File for Online Viewing.
>>If you have the Valve Clearances Set Correctly, then the Cam is the Next Logical Component to Examine.
>>The Following is a Basic Instruction File for Examining the Inside of a Small Engine and will Assist you in having Access to the Governor, Oil Pump (if Applicable), Cam and Crankshaft Gear. Any Input is Appreciated.
>>**This is a Simple Process. Drain the Oil and Remove the Engine to the Work Bench with the Oil Pan Facing Up. I have a Wooden Rest that was Especially Made to Hold the Engine when in this Position.
>>Using Fine Sand Paper, Remove ALL the Rust and Debris from the Crankshaft.
>>Remove ALL the Oil Pan Bolts.
>>After All the Oil Pan Bolts are Removed; Tap Lightly on the Sides of the Oil Pan to Loosen it from the Dowel Pins.
Sometimes you May have to Use a Flat Screw Driver or Chisel Between the Oil Pan/Sump at the Areas Nearest to the Dowel Pin and Loosen  the Oil Pan/Sump.
>>When the Oil Pan is Removed, you can See the Governor Resting on Top of the Cam Gear.
>>****If Required: Lift Off and Replace with a New Governor. Check the Engine Block for Debris from the Old Governor and Wipe the Inside of the Block With a Rag, Until Clean. Set the Governor Shaft So it will be Resting on the Governor whine the Oil Pan is Replaced and Carefully Replace the Oil Pan. If the Crankshaft Seal Was Not Leaking, then Leave it Alone. It Should be OK. You can Easily Replace it While Mounted on the Machine if Required Later. Make Sure the Governor Stays in Contact with the Governor Shaft while Replacing the Oil Pan. Re - Mount the Engine to the Machine. Refill With Oil. Your Internal Governor May Differ.**  
>>You can Also Inspect and Change the Cam at this Time if Required.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John