Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): briggs valve adjustment, riding lawn mower, valve adjustment

Question
I have a briggs 18hp riding lawn mower that will not start It turns over very slowly. but turns over very fas w/ plugs removed . my local shop said that the valves were out of adjustment . I am an automotive tech. so I know how to do it just not on a small engine . UIt is a briggs 18hp twin power MOdel #422707 type 1522  

Answer
Hi Ronnie,

Sorry for the delay.  My ISP was down.

I'm not sure that you DO have a valve problem.  Any engine will turn over with the plugs removed as there is no compression to overcome.  I would check for spark.  Then for a lack of fuel by squirting fuel into the carb.  Let me know if you get any sign of it trying to start.  If the engine does not turn over fast enough, I would check the battery, try another one or jump it for supplementation.

Michael