Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): older Wheelhorse wont start..., wheelhorse mowers, going in the right direction

Question
Hello John--- I am particularly fond of Wheelhorse mowers....My oldest machine is a 1976 model with a 16 horse Kohler.... For the past couple of seasons it has been a little difficult to start.... Still has good compression and runs great when it starts.... It is now at a local mechanics shop for a checkup...Mechanic just called and said there is a problem with the intensity of the fire... It does fire enough that you can get a good shock and see a bit of blue spark...but not enough for it to srart...I know this sounds strange but he seems to think that there is a brain box that is not performing up to snuff...He said he believes this is actually a resistor.. it is located in the dash right below the steering wheel... Is there some way I can bypass or replace this box or resistor. I haven't had any luck finding an electrical part for this old mower and was hoping you can help... I know one solution may be to replace the motor with a newer style but I don't think it wise to spend $1000+ on this old of a machine...and I can't believe there isn't some remedy for this engine which still runs great whenever it does start..it is hydrostatic tranny and it is also in strong condition...any ideas as to a remedy orr68c6 a source for such a resistor....I will get you model numbers should you think you can help.....thanks   jim c  

Answer
 Hello Jim:

 Something Doesnt sound Right here. The Engine is Hard to Start but Runs Good. Send me All the Enine Numbers and I May be Able to Assist you Better. I Dont think your going in the Right Direction here. I have a Wheelhorse with a Kohler that was Made in 1973. The Only Problem I have Had is the Carburator and It Did Burn a Valve Once. Also, if the Engine has Any Fire at All, it will Start and Run. Blue Fire is the Best Fire at the Plug you can Have. I would Look to the Carburator for your Starting Problems or Low Compression. I have Found Over the Years, that if the Coil Fires the Plug any at All then the Engine will Startand Run Properly as long as the Gas and Compression is Correct Too. Thanks.  Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John