Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Starter, compression stroke, compression release

Question
I have a 15.5 OHV Tuscumseh. 2000 model. It is giveing me start problems. It will not freely turn the engine completly over. The Battery is new and hot. It seems to have a problem during the compression stroke part of cranking. I can remove the sparkplug and it turns over very freely. The flywheel geart and starter gears are all fine with no sign of binding. It has always been hesitant in cycling over for the compression stroke part of the cranking process. I am ready to purchase a new starter for it, but I am hoping I will not be doing so in vane. Are there any other options I should be looking at?

Answer
 Hello Micah:

 The Compression Release(in the valve system) May be Out of Adjustment. If the Battery and Starter and the Wires are Good, then the Compression Release or the Flywheel Key is the next Common Causes for this Problem. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. I enjoy knowing the Outcome. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully
 
 John