yes, if the starter is dragging, it'll pull more amps from the battery (more load) which will increase the heat. the only other thing to do would be increase the gauge of wire by 1 size. next time you crank it, put a volt meter on the battery and see what the voltage is there, then try it again with your voltmeter down on the positive wire of the starter, what's the voltage there? both of these tests are while you're cranking the engine.

 

Ok got it running!!! Put a new starter on it and it fired right up. But I can't get it to idle right. Maybe the carb needs to be adjusted?

 

yes, adjust the carb. read and follow the sticky thread in the forum for carb adjustment. that'll help you.

 

The carb might need cleaned.