Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kohler Engine Revs very high, craftsman riding mower, inductive tachometer

Question
I have a craftsman riding mower with a 17 hp Kohler engine. Sometimes when I try to start it nothing happens. I know it is not the battery because the lights are on and I cannot even jump it. When I feel the starter, it feels hot. Then when I get it started, the engine feels like it is revving at a really high rpm and making a high pitched whistleing sound. I am wondering if this would be a starter problem or if there is something else I should be looking at.

Thanks  

Answer
First off, it sounds like you have a starter issue especially if you can't even jump it and it gets hot.  You need an inductive tachometer to verify the engine RPM and set the governed speed if necessary (a good shop can do this).  It's hard to say what the high pitched whistling sound is.  If you suspect this sound is coming from the starter, it could be that the starter gear isn't disengaging from the ring gear on the flywheel.  Hope this helps.