Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman riding lawnmower turns over once, craftsman riding lawnmower, piston area

Question
Hello,

I have a craftsman 17.5hp riding lawn mower that won't start.  The fly wheel rotates around a couple of times and then stops and the starter will just make clicking noises.  I've had the machine 6 years and I've noticed that the starter is taking longer to start the engine.  If I turn the wheel by hand, it goes freely around until it reaches one spot which I'm assuming is the compression cycle but I'm able to force it past it by hand but the starter will stop on it.  
I will mention the last time I used it, it was low on oil so I replaced it.  I'm wondering if the starter has finally gone "bad", maybe the original battery is the culprit (doubt it) or if the low oil caused something in the shaft/piston area to warp.

Thanks for the help...

Answer
 Hello Matt:

 Have the Battery Load Tested. If the Battery is Good, then have the Starter Checked for Dragging/Binding. From your Description it Sounds like a Bad Battery or a Bad Starter. The Low Oil Most likely did Some Damage, but Not Enough to Cause the Problem you are having now. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me nkow what Happens, Please. I enjoy knowing the Outcome. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John