Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs & Stratton 16.5 HP vertical Engine, briggs stratton, vertical shaft

Question
We have a 3-year-old garden tractor with a B & S vertical shaft, electric start, 16.5 hp engine.
When the motor is cold it cranks over and starts perfectly. But when it is hot it only cranks about one turn and appears to have too much resistance for the starter. These effects are consistent. I assume that when hot the rather feeble B&S decompressor mechanism is not working 0 have you any suggestions for a fix
Best Regards
Roger Pendleton

Answer
 Hello Roger:

 I have seen this Many Times. 1- The Starter May be Gragging when it is Hot. 2- The Battery Can May have a Weak Cell. Send me the Model Numbers Off of the Engine, Please. I can then Look at a Diagram of this Engine and Better Assist you. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John