Hey all,

New project. I have an 8 hp tecumseh. appears to not have much compression. I took off the head to find what apears to be a little loose exhaust valve when full shut. I proceeded to take off the breather cover and such to see if I had a bent valve and it looks okay. I believe my issue is in the block. My reasoning for this is that the engine makes a kind of taping when i move just up to TDC. I can spin the piston back and forth at that point and always here the noise like something is loose in the engine itself. If anyone may no know the cause of the sound, I would be very greatful. I am planning on tearing down the motor this evening but it would be nice to have some insight.

Thanks

Could be several different things. When you tear it down, take a close look at the connecting rod to see if it's loose on the crank pin or the wrist pin. Look at the camshaft where it rides in the block and sump to see if there is any play there. Could also be play in the crankshaft journals.

Pretty much check everything. If you find any discoloration or metal transfer this would be a good place to start.