Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): JD L100, twin cylinder engines, john deere l100

Question
My riding mower does not start. I have a 3-year old John Deere L100 with a Briggs and Stratton 17HP OHV. When I turn the key the motor turns over very slow 1-2 times and that's it. Seems like a dead battery but I took the battery, had it tested, and it's OK. It's not that old either. Thought it was the starter, but put a new one on and same issue. What could be the issue and how do I determine without wasting even more money?

Answer
Hello Jeff:

I have been Seeing this a Lot Over the Past Few Years. Reset the Valve Clearance. The Compression Release System is Not Functioning Correctly. All the Engine OEMs are having the Same Valve Clearance Problems. **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) 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