Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere STX 38, dowel pins, compression release

Question
I purchased a used JD STX38 with yellow deck.  When I got it the mower would not turn over, not even with a jump start.  I took the startor down and had it tested, then replaced the startor.  The battery had a bad cell so i replaced it as well.  It will start, but will only turn over with the aid of my battery charger/booster and even then acts as if it isnt getting enough power.  With just the battery, you hear the solenoid click, but the startor motor does not engage.  What could cause this?

Answer
Hello Brian:

Make Sure the Valve Rocker Arms are Tightened Properly. If these Loosen, then the Compression Release will Not Operate Correctly and Cause the Problem you Described. If the Rocker Arms are Tight and you have Replaced the Battery, then the Internal Compression Release on the Cam is Bad and Requires Replacing. There is a Small Spring on the Compression Release that Breaks and Sometimes Jumps Off and when this Happens, the Compression Release Stops Working and you will have the Problem you Described. The Following Instruction File is for Replacing the Cam. It will Assist you in Repairing the Compression Release on the Cam. The Following is a Basic Instruction File for Examining the Inside of a Small Engine and will Assist you in having Access to the Governor, Oil Pump (if Applicable), Cam and Crankshaft Gear. Any Input is Appreciated. **This is a Simple Process. Drain the Oil and Remove the Engine to the Work Bench with the Oil Pan Facing Up. I have a Wooden Rest that was Especially Made to Hold the Engine when in this Position. Using Fine Sand Paper, Remove ALL the Rust and Debris from the Crankshaft. Remove the Oil Pan Bolts. After All the Oil Pan Bolts are Removed; Tap Lightly on the Sides of the Oil Pan to Loosen it from the Dowel Pins. When the Oil Pan is Removed, you can See the Governor Resting on Top of the Cam Gear. ****If Required: Lift Off and Replace with a New Governor. Check the Engine Block for Debris from the Old Governor and Wipe the Inside of the Block With a Rag, Until Clean. Set the Governor Shaft So it will be Resting on the Governor whine the Oil Pan is Replaced and Carefully Replace the Oil Pan. If the Crankshaft Seal Was Not Leaking, then Leave it Alone. It Should be OK. You can Easily Replace it While Mounted on the Machine if Required Later. Make Sure the Governor Stays in Contact with the Governor Shaft while Replacing the Oil Pan. Re - Mount the Engine to the Machine. Refill With Oil. Your Internal Governor May Differ.**  You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine and Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Find. Then Select your Model from the Search Results Area. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. 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