Nope, this is most likely a problem with the valves needing adjusting. On your engine, there is a compression release that works off an arm on the camshaft. This mechanism is active at low RPM's and cancels out when the engine begins running. Many,many users have encountered this problem. The compression release AIDS in the starting phase. It uses the intake valve (which opens slightly) just below TDC on the power stroke in the 4 stroke cycle. The Briggs site has all the valve clearances and the instructions on how to do this. You will have to remove each valve cover (4 little screws) to access the upper valve train on your engine. You will need a box wrench, an allan or Torx (star) driver and a feeler gauge. It is not hard to do. You won't have to buy any new parts either. Here are the Briggs instructions for adjusting the overhead valves on your engine.
http://www.briggsandstratton.com/engines/support/frequently-asked-questions/Servicing%20the%20valves/
If your model has say a Kohler engine, then the adjustment procedures are probably similar.
This WILL fix your "hard-to-start" problem.
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