Okay I have a MTD-Bolens Riding Mower, model # 13AM662F16 with a B&S 15.5 OHV Engine Model #283H070197E1.

I bought the mower used it had been outside for awhile. First I bought a battery (because it had none) I went to start with key its just clicked, so I jumped the wires on the solenoid it would crank one time around or two and would stall. (I think it is hitting the compression stroke)So I took off the starter and bench tested it. It Spun like a top perfectly fine. So I thought it may be the battery once again or the starter so I jumped the battery and same results then I jumped the starter directly off a car battery it still did the same thing. I then took the plug out and jumped the starter form the car and it cranked just fine. I check the plug for spark and yes it has spark. I then put the plug back into the block and it would do the same thing again.

(Now I do have the carb tore apart as I am cleaning it out for there was a lot of gum build up in it. I know it will not start without the carb put together and properly connected IE selonoid etc. but why will it not crank freely like it should. I have read up on the compression release but I don't have a manual for the mower.)

Can anyone give me any ideas or lead me in the proper direction. I am mechanically inclined as I work for the Army as a mechanic!

Thank You!

Mr. Tupling

It sure sounds like the valves are out of adjustment.

Check out this thread: https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/tools-power-equipment/briggs-stratton-16-5-ohv-36963.html?highlight=briggs+valve+adjustment

Remove plug and see if it cranks, but hold a rag in front of opening.

If it's flooded, you can't compress liqud gas, only vapor.

Check the oil to see if it's overfilled or filled with gas.

Compression release happens at low speeds and the forward direction.
In reverse, there is no release. Speed up the crank and there is no release.

If the Compression Release mechanism won't release even after turning the flywheel, is this an expensive repair ? I have a Bolen 15.5 B & S, 2008. Should I replace it ?

More often than not all you need is a valve adjustment. Its fairly easy to do. Just Google "Briggs and Stratton valve adjustment" and watch a video.