Log Splitter hard to pull cord

I have a Kholer 25Ton 6.5hp Log Splitter. Bought it new a little over a year ago. I used it just yesterday and ran as it always does. Super easy to start (usually on the first pull) and I shut it down after working, so it's not like it 'quit' working. I got a hair up my butt and decided to split a little more last night and went to pull the cord and noticed it was super hard to pull and didn't sound right. Ultimately, I never got it started. I pulled off the pull cord cover and it pulls freely (couldn't be something that simple afterall). Pulled out the spark plug (which I tested and it is getting spark), sprayed a little WD-40 in there and
sprayed a little starter fluid into the carb and there was no change in the pull (still hard). I'm not a mechanic by no means. I use words like "thingy" so bare with me if I don't sound like I know what i'm taking about. I did manage to rebuild the carburetor on my Bolens MTD lawn tractor. Not too shabby for a 48 yr old female. I just need a starting point in what i'm looking for. I just can't believe it literally worked like a champ one minute and 2 hours later it's ready for the scrap metal yard.

Well the first stupid question is.....did you check the oil level? Almost seized a Briggs last year just because of that. With the plug out pour a little dribble of atf into the hole. Then see if it will free up. Hope you didn't score up the cylinder walls or the crank.

Check to be sure the ram handle is in the neutral position and not still clicked on the return detent.

Gears, didn't think of that one. Never had the neighbors splitter
stick but have tryed to start a couple of lawn tractors in gear. Hope
she finds something. Also had a float stick and flood the cylinder.
Hydro lock.

Omg. I feel like a complete moron! It WAS engaged. I just
didn?t think to look at that because I remember one time when
it ran out of gas, it ran out in the middle of a split. I put gas in
it, started it back up, and it automatically moved back to the
starting position and the handle popped back onto the
disengaged position. Anyway, it purring like a kitten. Thanks
guys.

Yaaaa! It got fixed and now you can blush a little. Glad it was a simple fix. Bet you fill the gas tank a little more often? Just let it cool down before you do!!

Don't feel bad. I have done lots of things like that in my 66 years.
Richard in NW SC

I know just how you feel. I spent an hour on a transfer switch that wouldn't transfer. Did all my checks. Then noticed the transfer motor control switch was off. Turned it back on tested it. Packed up my tools. Told the customer no charge and left. Felt like a real idiot.