When I try to start my 15hp Ariens mower, the starter turns the engine over and "STOPS" like it is up against TDC and compression is too high. If I try to start again it "gets over" that pause and usually starts. I have installed a new battery with 325 CCA, and checked all cables and connections. I really feel like the timing has jumped or maybe valves are out of adjustment??? I'm a 2 stroke mechanic, so I'm just guessing here. I'd appreciate any help / ideas.
Tony P
Unionville, NC

I would look at valve timing, compression release system (if your engine has one), and check the starter motor.

Could someone offer some guidance for checking valves? I don't think this engine has a compression release, but, I do not even know what that would look like.
Tony P

Post model and spec numbers off of the engine.

Model 28N707

Type 0173-01

Serial 961016ZD

its the valves , re set them , and make sure the small buttons didnt fall out , they set between the valve stem and the rocker arm , i could be wrong but i think they set at 4 and 7 , i dont use a feeler gauge set them by feel , you might want to take the rocker arms all the way off and make sure the stud is tight , sometimes it will back off and you will pull your hair out , just make sure the stud is tight and the buttons are there , and you are on the flat side of the cam , later

Do you mean to set them at 4/1000 & 7/1000 ??
Thanks, Tony P

yes, .004" & .007". Just to be sure they are set right, I would suggest using a gauge.

yea better use the guage <----((((((((

Not to be a PAIN, but, is that .0004 for intake and .0007 exhaust?
What do you mean cam on the flat side?
I build 2 stroke MX engines, this is a little foreign to me!
Thanks,

Tony P

.0004 for intake and .0007 exhaust? yeppers , when the intake is at full lift set the exaust , when the exaust is at full lift set the intake