Newer Cadet...draggy to start when hot

[frontshadow]

I recently purchased a SLT 1550 (25HP Koler) and just noticed this weekend that it is almost impossible to start after running for a while. Actually my unit has about 45 run hours showing. It is a reconditioned unit.

If I let it sit for a about 30 to 60min, it whips over just as normal and starts without delay. When it is hot, the starter drags and in fact will not turn the engine over a complete revolution. By bumping the key (starter) it will eventually turn enough to move the 2nd cylinder off the compression stroke but will "hang" on the other. It seems like a bad starter or weak/not fully charged battery. It would seem if the battery was weak or not charged, it (eventually) would not even turn over at all. Lights are always bright and it will start normally when cold(er).

Could the starter be getting hot and losing torque?

[OLD HAT]

it sounds to me like you need a new starter.

[frontshadow]

UPDATE....today I talked with a Kohler small engine repair person that suggested the valve train may need adjustment. He went on to say that he's seen the same problem on engines with much less run time. Later I talked with a different technician at a different repair place that is sure it is the battery.

This sounds like a doctor that sends you home with pills to "try out". The doc says to come back in two weeks and let me know how they worked for ya. What happened to the professional technicians that actually knew how to get things resolved and FIXED?