Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): starting, craftsman riding mower, bushings

Question
Hi,
I have an 18 h.p. Craftsman riding mower that turns over very slowly, too slowly to start. I have put a fresh battery of similar size and it still acts sluggish. Occasionally it will turn over quick enough to start. Once it is running, the mower runs great. I have traced wires and haven't found anything wrong. Like I said, it does have a fresh battery and all the connections are tight and corrosion free. The ignition switch is somewhat corroded. The mower will not start when I try and jump start it.
This mower is a Craftsman II and is 10 years old. I put a new starter gear on last year. Other than that it hasn't had any repairs.  

Answer
 Hello Jacob

 I understand your problem well.  Replace the starter. There is internal wear on the bushings and a load will make it sluggish to turn the engine. I have pulled several starters off and the work good with no load on them but when put onto the engine they turn the engine slowly and often not fast enough to start the engine.  

 Respectfully

 John