Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S engine hard to crank, mtd mower, engine cranks

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Hello,
Having difficulty getting my 8-9 year old B&S to crank. It is a 14hp OHV style and resides in my MTD mower. It has had regular oil changes.

Battery o.k. and have even tried different one.

Solenoid is new.

starter performs fine off engine (no load of course)

Engine cranks quite fast when spark plug is removed.

Eliminated fuel flooding as the problem

Checked/reset lash on the valves (seemed o.k.)

Shear pin o.k.


The mower did manage to start once during troubleshooting (but not without effort) and I proceeded to mow about an acre. Now back to the same old problem. Getting about a half rotation, then nothing. Perhaps the starter has lost it's torque?

I am out of any other guesses, any help appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

chris
Answer -
Hi Chris,

I would get the starter tested.  I agree with you, it probably has gotten weak.   Make sure that the cable connections are clean and not broken.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael

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Hello again Michael,
I was just wondering if this engine (model 287707) had a compression release mechanism, or if this is accomplished by the valve timing alone. Sure seems hard to turn over by hand when the plug is in. Assuming it does have such a mechanism is it repairable? Is this alot of work? Is it worth it?

Thanks again,
Chris

BTW, I am getting that starter checked out tomorrow....
Answer -
Hi Chris,

The engine WOULD be hard to turn over by hand with the plug installed.  A compression release issue (If equipped) is a good point to consider, however I don't know if your model has one or how to check it.

Michael

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Hello

I swapped the starter with a known good one--same result. Tried readjusting the valve lash again and now it starts with some effort. I guess the specs on the lash are more critical than what I thought. I think by making some more finite adjustments, it will be fine.

Thanks so much for your time

Chris

Answer
Hi Chris,

The valves could throw the timing off and cause the problem.   One more thing to check would be that there is no strain on the crankshaft pulley belt.  If possible, remove it and try cranking.  Sometimes they get out of adjustment.

Good luck,
Michael