Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumsa OHH60 valve problem?, synthetic engine oil, select shop

Question
I had difficulty starting my Yardman roto-tiller this spring.  It has a Tecumsa OHH60-71217E engine.  It's about 5 years old with only 10hrs of operating time. I checked the spark, replaced the spark plug, re-gapped the coil module, and tried using propane squirted into the carb.  I eventually removed the air-filter and tried to choke it with my thumb.  The odd thing is it would suck my thumb in and then blow it back out.  It would also blow out fuel mist.  I kept it up and eventually it started to just suck my thumb in.  At that point it finally fired and ran.  It seems like the intake valve was perhaps stuck open, but it also seemed like I had compression.  This happens every year, but was really a problem this year.  It took a couple of days of working on it to get it started.  Is it possible that the intake valve is sticking and what would I do about it?

Answer
Hello John:

The Best Way to Prevent this Problem is to Use Synthetic Engine Oil. I have Switched All my Equipment and Other Equipment that the Shop Services to Synthetic Oil. I have Less Trouble with Stuck/Sticking Valves, Broken Connecting Rods, and I get Better Engine Service Also. The Engine Sems to Perform Better and Last Longer between Major Repairs. Other than Changing to Synthetic Oil, you May have to Remove the Cylinder Head; Disassemble and Clean the Head. 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 (OHH60-71217E). Then Select your Model and Download the File for Online Viewing. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp  and Select Shop Online Parts and Accessories. Now Select the Model Tab. Select the OEM (MTD) and Enter the Model Numbers. Now Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. 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