Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): kohler ch25s, ransomes bobcat, compression stroke

Question
engine very difficult to start. seems to really bog down going thru compression strokes. spins fine with plugs out. can get it started by hooking up to the engine start on my charger. when it does start it runs very poorly and intermittently belches fire out of the carb. pulled valve covers and all appears well, no stuck valves or bent push rods. oil level is ok. is there a compression release mechanism in this engine that could be malfunctioning? could it be a partially sheared flywheel key? engine is in a ransomes mower (similar in design to a walker).
kohler ch25s
spec - 68601
ser - 2819903371
thank you

Answer
Hello Kirk:

>>You May have 2 Problems Now.
>>The Stator/Charging Coil or Regulator (if Applicable May be Damaged and Require Replacing before the Engine will Charge the Battery Again.
>>From your Description it Sounds like a Sheared Flywheel Key or a Bad/Broken Compression Release (this Engine came with Both Style Cams)is Causing the Erratic Compression Stroke.
>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM (Kohler) and Enter the Model and Spec Numbers (). Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View.
>>I had a Ransomes Bobcat 62" Cut, Hydro and I Loved it.
>>Please, Do Not Hesitate, If you Hit a Snag, if I Missed Something or this Does Not Correct the Problem, I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

>>PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John