I have a 14-year-old MTD lawn tractor with a B&S 16.5 engine using SAE 30 oil. The starter often cranks slowly in certain situations - like when the engine temperature is below 55F or if I try to re-start it while the engine is at operating temperature. For instance, when I try a warm or hot start, the starter will turn the engine a partial revolution, then halt for 1/2 to 1 second, turn a partial again, halt again, then finally the engine will start. I want to know if there's a way to tell if it is a weak starter before I spend $90 on a new one. Thank you!

The forum only designates "gasoline" engines, but this may apply anyway. I did routine maintenance the other day on my Kubota ZD21, lubricating everything and changing oil, filters, etc. Although I changed the fuel filter it was still bogging down in a pull with the blades engaged. I ordered a fuel pump thinking it was getting weak. When I got under it to change the pump I discovered a second fuel filter. I decided to change it first. Once it was changed out I decided to cut it open. It was almost totally occluded with crap. What a difference good fuel flow makes :thumbup: Although no real question, I just wanted everyone to be aware there may be a second filter on your machine, so don't ignore it.