Troy Bilt/Kohler Courage 22 Won't start -tried everything I can think of
As the title states, I'm not sure what else to try next after having the worst experience with the worst mower/engine I've ever dealt with (minimal experience). It started with the engine not being able to turn over and start, which led me down the deep rabbit hole of the decompression release on the engine block. I finally got the part (a spring) and replaced it along with a newer starter (current one was discontinued from manufacturer) with hopes that it was the issue. When I would start it the flywheel would spin, but very weak and eventually wouldn't turn anymore.
Many suggested adjusting valves, which I did. I started with all the basics and worked downwards. What's been done:
-fresh gas
-OIL change
-new spark plug and new OEM carb
-new gasket seal for the top of the block
-spring replace for ACV
-new battery
So after everything, loctite on engine bolts and all its finally buttoned up, it won't even start at ALL afterwards to test it.
Battery still read good, alls I'm getting is a click .from the solenoid. I did a bench test with it and it tested good, but replaced anyways to troubleshoot. Just installed a bit ago and still, same issue persists. Not movement from engine or anything, so somehow the start isn't getting power. I triple checked all the wiring harness, main one and all for loose grounds, nothing. It was wired up the SAME exact way it was when it started and ran about a week ago.
I replaced the starter relay since there was a burnt end in one of the slots ( wire connects to magnet coil), and still wasn't the issue.
My initial issue wasn't even anything power related but somehow it's worse after I put the engine back together. Makes zero sense to me.
Sorry for the rant/long post here but I'm literally at zero options left unless I overlooked something.
Anyone deal with something similar preferably for it drives me bat ****? Yes I've already googled, YouTube it a zillion times. No one either has an identical issue or same engine.
It's a Troy Bilt riding mower with a Kohler Courage 22 engine. (I know their POS but can't afford another rider).
Any help would be GREATLY appreciated. Could use another set of virtual eyes on this issue.