White LT1850 slow crank and hang up

[sofasurfer]

I'm working on a White LT1850 lawn tractor. Engine doesn't want to crank. It turns but in tiny fits and jerks. I thought the battery was weak and it was...about 11.5 volts. I charged it and it is only very slightly better...still in fits and jerks. Its like it barely has the strength to start to spin but then it hit the compression and stops. If I hold the key on it MAY make it through the compression one time but thats it. Now I jumped directly to the starter and got the exact same result. No stronger, no weaker. I'm thinking the starter is dragging. Can I test it or can a place like autozone test it? They are closed right now.

I also just found this video

which explains that "Mower Won't Turn Over, Starter Hangs Up, Turns Slowly" symptoms are likely a bad valve adjustment.

 

[Bertrrr]

Pull the starter and bench test it, clamp it down tight and put battery voltage on it , it should spin like crazy and almost jump off the bench if it's good.