Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda GX390 13HP, honda gx390, compression stroke

Question
At my job we have a power washer with this engine driving it.  An other department borrowed it and returned it with the pull start binding and will not start.  The coil will free-up with the spark plug removed.  We removed the washer pump end and no sucess with the pull chord start/ binding problem.  As we have a limited budget, we would like to repair in house.  Could you throw some light on our limited knowledge of small engines?

Answer
Hello Joe:

The Valve Clearance Needs to be Reset. The Compression Release Can Not Function Properly because the Exhaust Valve is Not Opening Properly and Activating the Compresion Release. That is the Reason for the Engine Turning Easy when the Spark Plug is Removed. Set the Piston to TDC on the Compression Stroke. Set the Intake Clearance to .005in - .007in and the Exhaust Clearance to .007in - .009in. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower/Engine at this Site Addy, http://hayward.arinet.com/scripts/EmpartISAPI.dll?MF&app=ASP&lang=EN&TF=Mainfram... and Select the Catalog American Honda. If you Require More Detailed Instructions, Just Let me Know. 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. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. 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