CH18s sounds like timing is retarded
 

I have an 1864 with Kohler CH18s and it sounds as if the timing is retarded. It still has enough power to mow. It is hard starting both cold and hot. Any ideas?
Thank You

First, welcome to OCC......... :Welcome2:

The 1864 has a Kohler Command CH18S engine in it. The timing is fixed and non-adjustable.

Here are some things to consider for hard starts:

If I had to guess as a complete shot in the dark, you’ve got blown head gaskets.

Very common on those engines.

It’s also possible you have a sheared flywheel key which would affect timing.

Id start by doing a compression/leak down test and see what you get.

Either one of those problems is going to require you to pull the engine though.