Kohler 7000 series weak turn over

I have a Toro mower with a Kohler 7000 series (KT735) engine. It doesn't have a lot of hours on it. Three seasons on my 2 acres. Last year at the beginning of the season it had a weak start. Would lift the starter but stop when it hit some compression. Couple of tries and it would go. This year its doing it more often. Battery is fully charged. Battery analyzer says it's good. Wondering if the valve clearance needs to be adjusted? Started to adjust the valves today. Pulled the plugs and tried to click the starter to get top dead center but that's not a good way to do it as it spins too fast even when clicking quickly. Is there an easier way to move the engine to get it to top dead center? Do I have to remove the whole engine cover up top? Never did proceed as it turns out my new feeler gauges only go up to .035. DUH. I'll get some proper feelers and tackle it again.

Oh geez, brain fart there. I just grabbed the package and saw the size range. Was thinking .035" was 35 thou. I know better than that, lol. I need .004 to .006
Also I had tried reaching up under to crank it but could get a good enough grip to move it. I'll maybe block it up higher and try to get a wrench or plier on it.