Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): tecumseh 6 to 8 hp, engine teardown, jumper cables

Question
QUESTION: The engine is electric start,  direct coupled to a 4000W generator.  It hasn't been necessary to use it for 3 or 4 years.  I have connected it to my automobile with jumper cables and it straines to even turn over.  The lights on the car do dim so I know it is pulling a load to crank. I remove the spark plug and it spins like a top.  I removed the muffler thinking the exhaust might be plugged but it's spanking clean.  What could be the cause of extreme high compression?? Unfortunately I cannot supply the model or serial number of the engine and I am guessing at the HP. There is no name plate.  If ANYONE out there can enlighten me it would be GREATLY appreciated.
ANSWER:   Hello Joe:

 Remove the Spark Plug and Add SAE 30 Engine Oil to the Cylinder. Turn the Engine with the Plug out and Cover the Plug Hole with a Rag to Prevent the Oil from Making a Mess when the Engine is Turned. If the Rings are Lubricated Well and the Engine is Still Turning Slowly, then the Valve Clearance or a Binding/Dragging Starter is the Cause of the Problem. Check the Valve Clearance. It has Become a Common Occurrence for the Valve Adjustment to Move and Tighten. When this Happens, the Compression Release Stops Working and the Starter Can Not Turn the Engine to Start it. If you can Locate the Model Numbers, I can Use them to Locate the Proper Manuals and Better Assist you. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello John;
Thanks for your info.  I was not aware that a single cylinder 4 cycle engine required valve adjustment.  Unfortunately there is no engine name plate, only Tecumseh,  so I am unable to provide model or serial.  If there are tappets and/or rockers how do I access them without a complete engine teardown?  Is there a general rule of thumb for setting the clearances?  ie.  .005 vs .010  

Answer
 Hello Again Joe:

 The Valve Clearances are Set to Certain Specifications ie: .003in - .005in Intake and .008in - .010in Exhaust on Some Engines. Can you get a Picture and an Addy for me to View the Generator and Engine? Check and See if the Numbers are Stamped Into the Blower Housing of the Engine Above the Spark Plug. Try this Addy http://www.tecumsehpower.com/CustomerService/BSI.pdf. It May Assist you Now and in the Future. What is the OEM of the Generator. Is it a Coleman? Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John