I have a B/S 12 hp 28000 series engine. Rebuilt the engine and now upon trying to start, the engine drags and won't start even on the charger. It doesn't appear to be spinning fast enough so I bench tested the starter. When it spins it sounds real rough (whining sound) Connections are tight, ground, starter, etc. Took the spark plug out and it spins fast and freely. Any ideas?

Ironpedlar

Sounds to me like you have fiqured it out, Bad starter. It is not uncommon for a B&S starter to do what you are describing, take it apart and look at the internal condition.

Don, You were right. I took the starter apart, cleaned it and put just a drop of oil on the top plate where the starter drive comes through. Reinstalled the starter and the engine kicked off first try. Thanks for your advice. Ironpedlar