Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman t1000 riding mower w/17hp b&s, compression release, plug hole

Question
my mower will barely turn over. it almost acts like a dead battery. the battery is good. when you turn the key it will turn one revolution and stop and start clicking or do nothing. if you raise the hood and manually spin the flywheel after the first revolution by hand it will sometimes kick again and start. some have said there is a compression release that might not be working properly, others have said it is a timing issue. the engine runs great when it starts. any advice will be appreciated.

Answer
Did the problem happen suddendly or has the mower sat a while?  Remove the spark plug and see if the engine turns over.  Also, watch the spark plug hole and see if any fluid squirts/sprays out while cranking the engine.

Did you have the battery load tested?
Let me know.
Eric