I have a mower with a 13hp kohler engine, the engine will not turn over completely, like its compression locking, I removed the valve cover and if I put the right amount of tension on the exhaust valve it will start, also if I pump on the exhaust valve a few times, then try it, it will spin over and crank, seems like the cam compression relief is sticking, I checked the push rods and they look straight, not really sure wanted to see if someone has had this problem before I tear into the engine.

 

Is the spark plug wet? Is the oil level overfull? Will it crank without the plug?

 

No the plug isnt wet, it will not turn over enough to get gas to the plug, the oil level is correct, and yes it will spin over with the plug removed
thanks

 

What model engine is it?...........................