Mine always started a lot harder than the ol foreman 450, I don't thing that thing would crank a half a turn before firing. My 700 last year would start really hard (didn't start once),but I havent had nearly the difficulties this year. I think going to a larger battery really makes a big difference, its amazing what some good cold cranking amps will do for you. The other thing I do that I read about on one of the three forums I'm a member of, is the starting technique. I put the key in,turn it right to cranking for three seconds, then shut it off. then do it again, it will usually fire with in seconds on the second attempt. i've tried starting it a bunch of different ways,but this way works the best for me.