Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn tractor starter does not turn enough to start, twin cylinder engines, compression stroke

Question
Tom,
I have a 17.5 OHV briggs, Model 313777, TYPE 0134-E1, CODE 000114ZE it will crank for a second or two and quit.  I've changed out the solenoid, battery and cable.  I even tried to adjust the valve clearance. It will spin fine without a plug in it. but with it has a real hard time. Is it time to look at the starter or maybe go back to the valve clearance.  Can you tell me what that should be?  I heard about compression release? ..Any ideas?

Answer
Hello Henry:

Sorry for the Delay. This Question was Located in the Question Pool and I can Only Answer Questions from the Question Pool when I am Not Answering Questions here or at the Other Site I Answer Questions at and I am on Vacation and had a Few Minutes to Answer a Few Questions. I Suggest you Make Sure the Valve Clearances are Correct. The Compression Release is either Attached to or a Part of the Cam and uses the Exhaust Valve to Slightly Release Compression During the Starting of the Engine. The Following is a Basic File I made for Setting the Valve Clearances. Any Input is Appreciated. **I Do Not Use the Setting Called for by the OEMs. I have Found that the Following Works Best. Remove the Valve Cover (on the Dead Cylinder for Twin Cylinder Engines). Set the Cylinder you are Setting the Valves on to Top Dead Center on the Compression Stroke When Setting the Valve Clearance. Now Loosen the Valve Adjuster Locks and Set the Intake Valve Clearance to .004in -.006in and the Exhaust to .007in - .009in. I have had Better Performance Out of the Mowers and Less Burnt Valves Using these Settings. Be Sure the Piston is at TDC on the Compression Stroke.** On Some Engines you can Us a Straightened Coat Hanger and Feel the Piston. Be Careful and Dont Jam the Wire in the Cylinder. Usually the Piston will Push the Wire Out of the Spark Plug Hole with No Problems. 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. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John