Morris Minor Owners Club

when I try to turn over the engine, it turns fine for most of a rotation, and then slows to a crawl when the pistons start to compress, stops, and then continues once it passes that one "tough" part; a sound that reminds me of the little engine that could. It is almost like I am using a battery that is almost dead, or the starter is extremely weak. The battery is out of a v6 Chevy Malibu, and it is well charged, so I don't think that it is the problem. If it is possible that a switched/missing/disconnected wire could be the reason, then it probably is (I'm a novice at Morris wiring). it looks like everything is installed correctly though. I was really hoping to pull the cable and have a nice long healthy turning-over sound. Anybody have any ideas?

If the timing is too far advanced the engine will kick back against the starter, could it be that?
How well does it spin over with the plugs out?
A bent starter shaft will give similar symptoms

Check for an earth strap between gearbox and crossmember. Try a jump lead between engine and battery earth for a quick check. If you are sure the battery is good - the starter may be in need of a clean/new brushes.