Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): White Riding Mower Wont Start, twin cylinder engines, brigg stratton

Question
I have a White Model No. LT 1850 Hydrostatic, w/ a Brigg & Stratton 18 hp engine, industrial plus, that has been very difficult to start, after I owned it about 2 years.  I believe the starter was replaced once, and the mechanism under the seat that allows it to start as well.  I've replaced the battery a year ago.  It was kept inside for the winter.  I have to jump it with the car and sometimes even this isn't enough to get it to turn over.  I've changed the spark plugs, and as a last resort have sprayed gasoline into the spark plug openings just prior to starting.  Any ideas?  Thanks, Doug

Answer
Hello Doug:

From your Description it Sounds like the Valve Clearances Require Resetting. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Unit at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM (White Outdoor) and Enter the Model Numbers (13A6616H190). Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Unit you Wish to View.  This is a 2003 LT1850, Model Number 13A6616H190. **I Do Not Use the Valve Clearance Settings 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 (Both Rocker Arms will have Play in them when the Engine is at TDC) 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 .006in - .008in. 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.**  If you Used a Vehicle with the Vehicles Engine Running to Jump this Unit, then you May have Damaged the Stator or Voltage Regulator and you May have a Battery Charging Problem Once you get the Engine Starting and Running Properly. 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