Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S 17HP Compression Stroke, scotts lawn tractor, compression stroke

Question
Hello, I have a Scotts lawn tractor 42" 17HP that I'm setting the valves on, the engine is a B&S 17hp Intek OHV. Model# 311777, Type# 0137-E1, Code# 980305ZD. How do I find top dead center on the compression stroke?

Answer
Remove the plug and insert a pencil in the hole, rotate theflywheel  and feel for TDC. Watch the valves so you know if you are TDC of the compression or exhaust strokes.

I suspect you are asking this question because your engine won't crank past compression and it needs the valves adjusted so the compression release can work.

If you are trying to adjust the valves don't worry about TDC.
Turn the flywheel until the exhaust valve goes down. Then adjust the intake valve. Repeat the same procedure for the exhaust valve. Do this twice to check your work.