Being hard to pull is normal, this means there is pinch and compression, when you go to start it just use short but quick pulls, also you could try taking off the air cleaner and putting about 7-8 drops of fuel in the carb, put the filter back on and try to restart, heating up the engine with a hairdryer or heat gun will help to start it as well. Also make sure there is fuel in the fuel line all the way up to the carb. Good luck to you. Let us know your progress!!!