Question on Kohler engine problem on lawn tractor

Hi everyone,

Starting last year, I started having a problem with my Craftsman lawn tractor - engine is a Kohler OHV - model CV22S.

I assumed I had a compression release problem caused by the valves being out of adjustment (real tricky to turn-over - need to keep playing with the key until it finally turns over) - just ordered new valve gaskets (I assumed they'd need to be replaced since the tractor came with my house and I'm sure it's never been done) - but, after a little searching - turns out I have hydraulic lifters which apparently don't need or can't be adjusted.

So....I plan to work on the tractor this week. I'm going to replace the plugs - wondering if I might have one cylinder misfiring, etc., and see if that works + when the plugs are out, I'll be able to see if compression release is the possible issue if the engine turns well without any compression. If anyone has had a similar issue and can offer any advice on other things to look for, I'd sure appreciate it.

P.S. This video link shows my exact symptoms on the starting issue - right at about 22 second into the video.


Cheers!

Okay - I'll give it a shot Captain! Yes, using the battery from over the winter - trickle charged it for about two days, but the battery is at least 4.5 years old and likely much older than that - probably not putting out the amps it once did. Thanks again for your help! Cheers!

David - that's my plan for today - I think I'll throw some new plugs in at the same time - haven't done that in at least 3 years. I'll give an update later today - thanks again! Cheers!