Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): WONT CRANK, twin cylinder engines, briggs and stratton

Question
I HAVE A 2006 POULAN 15.5HP BRIGGS AND STRATTON MOTOR. THE ENGINE WILL NOT CRANK. I BOUGHT A NEW BATTERY AND IT WORKED ONCE. NOW IT WILL BARELY TURN EVEN WITH A CHARGER HOOKED UP.  MODEL PD15538LT  #96012003801  SERIAL 01210SDOO2755

Answer
Hello Steve:

You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower at this Site Addy, http://hayward.arinet.com/scripts/EmpartISAPI.dll?MF&app=ASP&lang=EN&TF=Mainfram... and Select the Catalog Poulan/Weed Eater. From your Description it Sounds like the Starter is Dragging or the Valve Clearance Requires Setting. If the Engine Turns Properly with the Spark Plug/s Removed, then Reset the Valve Clearances. The Compression Release is Not Operating Correctly and Resetting the Valve Clearance will Correct this. **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 (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 .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.**  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