Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Mower wont start cold, twin cylinder engines, ohv engines

Question
Hi. I have a MTD mower with a 14hp B&S OHV that has a battery that reads form 12.50 to 13.25 volts but will not start when it is cold out or has been sitting for a time. It just sounds bogged down like a low battery. I have to charge the battery or jump it every time. After it has been running, it starts with no problem. The starter is new on it. Not sure what else I can check to make sure it starts every time without charging or jumping it. Thank you.

Answer
Hello AP:

If the Battery is Good and Does Not have a Weak/Dead Cell, then the Valves Require Resetting. The Internal Compression Release is Not Operating Properly Due to the Valve Setting Being Improper. This is a Common Problem with the OHV Engines from All the OEMs. 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 .008in - .010in. I have had Better Performance Out of the Mowers and Less Burnt Valves Using these Settings. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM and Enter the Model and Type Numbers (first 4 digits Only). Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Mower at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM and Enter the Model Numbers. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View. 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