Lt160 will not start.. has power.

[GrassVol]

The engine definitely moves much more freely when the spark plug is out.

 

[StarTech]

Good at least tells you that the problem is not a ran without oil problem.

 

[GrassVol]

Took the plastic engine cover off and can confirm that the starter works. It engages the engine but stalls because the flywheel is difficult to turn. What should I look at next to try to figure out the issue? Feels like the engine just doesn't release enough pressure to turn when the spark plug is in.

 

[slomo]

Pull the oil stick. Smell for fuel. Wondering if you have a trickle of fuel getting into the cylinder causing hard starts. Should pump out with the plug/s out.

Either you have compromised + and - cables, weak ground, weak starter or the same on the solenoid. Something is suspect. Didn't do this when new. Only things that happened are wear and tear and the like.

Flywheel key inspection time.