Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman LT1000 hard to start, twin cylinder engines, compression stroke

Question
I have a Craftsman LT1000 (917.271634) that is very hard to start.  I have tried many things....spark plug, fuel filter, air filter, solenoid, ignition switch.  Nothing helped.  I have replaced the battery and it still doesn't start.  It is very hard to turn over.  I did notice today that it turns over much easier and can be started every time by holding the governor control lever towards the front of the tractor.  Not sure why this is helping but the engine turns much easier when I do it.  I read other posts and was wondering if maybe something is wrong with the valves or they need adjustment.  Thanks for the help.

Answer
Hello Jeff:

To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Unit at this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/manual_and_more/doclist.aspx?categ... and Enter the Model Numbers (310707) and Type Numbers (0137) in the Appropriate Boxes and Click GO. Then Select Download PDF. I Suggest you Check and Reset the Valve Clearance First. Moving the Governor Reduces the Amount of Air Sucked Into the Intake and Lowers the Compression of the Engine Slightly. This Lower Compression Allows for Starting this Engine. It is a Common Problem with the OHV Engines. Resetting the Valves Corrects the Compression Release Problem and Allows it to Operate Properly Again. **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