An easy way test use flywheel kickback test turn engine by hand to compression stroke when get hard to turn turn a lose should fly backwards mean good compression. If engine setup over winter air moisture has swell carbon de carbon by removing cylinder Head clean piston and head lose carbon makes up down marks on cylinder walls. While head off check valve to see open and closing they stick open on Briggs. De-carbon make engine last you longer and starter want stop at compression stroke.
Overhead valve engine will take different game plan.