Problem Solved - As I mentioned, this engine powers a 35 ton hydraulic log splitter. "Someone" left the piston control handle in the open position on the splitter, hence the resistance. I know this can be an issue and am embarrassed to report that that was the problem, but hopefully this...
It still pulls as it is, but it's "tight", you can pull it a bit a get it around to where it will pull once with less resistance...
Perhaps I should also mention the engine is only a year or so old.
B&S on my log splitter sounded "funny" when I shut it off yesterday, today it's hard to pull & won't keep running when it briefly sputters.... Thoughts?