Compression release problem

I was given a Craftsman 917.272680 has Briggs 17.5 OHV engine model 31C707-02330-E1. Was told it was in great shape...... It will not crank over, even with a full charge and a jump. I have adjusted the valves to I .004 and E .006 at 1/4in past TDC. Shouldn't I see some push rod movement as the piston comes to TDC and past to indicate the compression release is working, I have watched it and have felt it and I get or feel nothing. I did a visual check of the flywheel key and it "looks" ok from the top. Any suggestions and/or opinions. Have a good one. Geo

 

Hello Geo,

The compression release mechanism on the camshaft comes apart pretty often on these (compared to others). I have one that was given to me just this week with the same problem. You'll have to open it up and change the camshaft and dig out the pieces of the old one. Good design, poor quality materials. The one I have was working fine, I had just made other repairs to the mower and cranked it up to move it. While it was running, I heard a ting and some rattling. I shut it off and it won't turn over anymore, same problem as yours. This is probably the 10th-15th time or so I've seen it happen.

 

Thanks Cheese, I suspected that. Have a good one. Geo