Kohler k241 hard starting

[RolFarrar]

I just replaced the valves, had the seats ground. It does not burn oil and seems to have adicate power, but still is very hard starting. I'm concerned about burning up the starter. I put a compression tester on and got nothing. Could my problem be caused by the ACR? This is a 10 HP. I also have a k241 12HP that has always been slow starting, but not to the point of concern.
Any help would be appreciated!