Kohler CH20S - access front spark plug?

[TomCooper]

I have a Toro commercial mower 74180 and went to change the spark plugs.

The rear plug was annoying enough because I had to remove the battery to get clearance to get it out, and the front is worse.

I was able to pull the front plug, but could not thread the front plug to tighten it.

Worse, I dropped the plug between the block and the heat shield and am having a devil of a time trying to fish it out.
Is there a trick to this? What am I missing?

 

[Auto Doc's]

A commercial mower is a dealer level machine if you can find one in your area. They are not cheap and not repair friendly.

 

[TomCooper]

I have a Toro commercial mower 74180 and went to change the spark plugs.

The rear plug was annoying enough because I had to remove the battery to get clearance to get it out, and the front is worse.

I was able to pull the front plug, but could not thread the front plug to tighten it.

Worse, I dropped the plug between the block and the heat shield and am having a devil of a time trying to fish it out.
Is there a trick to this? What am I missing?

I ended up jacking up the traction unit and using my creeper to reach and remove 4 bolts that held the heat shield in place. I was able to pull it out far enough to reach the missing plug and then install it.

Much more effort than I expected. But now I’ve got fresh plugs, air filter, oil & filter. Running well now.