Briggs 6.5 pressure washer engine won't start, compression questions

[bumperm]

Seems this should not be all that difficult, as the oft quoted point is you only need compression, fuel and ignition (all at the right time of course).

For a quick check of compression no disassemble required. Simply pull the starter cord slowly and "feel" the compression - - it should be readily apparent when the piston is coming up on the compression stroke (this is also where the valves are closed, of course, and the position the valves should be in for storage.

Spark is a bit tougher, as it is sometime difficult to see a weak magneto spark with the plug laying against the head in daylight, yet it is still enough for ignition. A spark tester is handy: Amazon.com: Lisle 19380 Spark Tester: Automotive

Fuel, one of the more likely problems, especially with the gas we get nowadays. Remove carb bowl and main jet, blow out with compressed air and check the small orifices carefully with light or music wir. If clogged you can clean, reassemble and test (and if good, fine), but probably best to remove carb for a more thorough cleaning. If a diaphragm type carb (no float bowl) check that the diaphragm is still flexible, as with gas additives they tend to harden, either flooding engine or starving it - rebuild kits are cheap on eBay.

bumper

 

[tcartwri]

One more thought while it's fresh in my mind. Should there be air pulsing out of the two small holes in the plate the rocker arm studs go though, on the top side of the head? When I pull the cord with the valve cover off, there is a good amount of air coming out of that plate. Now that I think about it, that air would have to be a result of the compression stroke. Is it possible a gasket or something is bad and allowing the air that should be pushing my finger off the spark plug hole to escape through the holes in that plate instead?

The pulse of air is from the piston going down the bore. Those air pulses are actually what drive your fuel pump. If it is excessive ( like shooting oil across the shop ) it indicates that your rings are gone.