Hi. First time user so will get to the point.
I have an older 16hp ROPER garden tractor with a 16 hp engine.I have recently put in a set of rings(std.) and changed to an electronic coil.I have also had the valves ground.Now begin the problems.
I have a hard time getting the engine to start.It will turn over fast but when it wants to fire the engine willstop dead as if it wants to turn backwards and then turn again and do the same thing.It might eventually start.I have tried to turn the coil around and it seems to make a difference on the spark.I have changed plugs to no avail.I have taken off the flywheel and the key is OK.It seems as if the engine is to far advanced by the why it is reacting.The new coil that I installed is a b&s # 398811.
The model of my engine is 326431 TYPE 0144-01 CODE 7211221.
I am at my wits end so any help someone can offer would greatly be appreciated.
Thank you Larry.

It sounds like either poor compression or you did not time cam to crank properly.

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Originally Posted by TheSavage

It sounds like either poor compression or you did not time cam to crank properly.

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I forgot to mention that the compression is 52#.I will have to check on the adjustment.Thanks

So it turns over... then stops (its hitting the compression stroke then probably) then goes again...
How old is the battery? Connections good? How's the starter? New, old, rebuilt?