Could have but a blown head gasket that causes problems like this won't fix itself.

He said his running problems had basically disappeared except for a little idle problem and that can indicate a blown head gasket.

That's why I suggested adjusting the idle mixture screw and then checking the plugs.

If it is a head gasket, it'll get bad enough the OP will know it without even checking the compression with a gauge.

Never said a thing about ignoring the problem.

So what's your problem with sticking a gauge on it now to see if there is an issue and getting it fixed? Seems to me like the smart move.... :Unknown:

I can't for the life of me figure out what your arguing about here. Do you really think that a 15 min compression check is a waste of time??? This argument is absurd.

I'm not arguing about anything. If you don't like my responses, just don't respond to them. I just don't like your condescending attitude and responses toward another members post that has been working on engines, decades before you were born and your arrogant responses to other posts I've made. I'm not the only one that feels that way.

I've got about 25 or more CC's. They all run, they all cut grass, push snow, blow snow, till, plow or whatever else they're supposed to do. I don't ever take them to a mechanic to have them worked on. Never have. Never needed to. And remember, they all do what they're supposed to do so I kinda' have an idea I know what I'm doing.

You refuse to accept anything that doesn't go by the book because that keeps you out of trouble as a business man. I refuse to go by the book if I think there is an alternate way, better way, cheaper way, of accomplishing the intended goal.

I know what the books say. I've read a lot of books and I've made a lot of repairs over the decades and I've made my share of mistakes. But that's how I learned.

Got it? If you haven't got it, get it!

This thread is getting out of control, I suggest that it get back on track.

I am not posting to it any longer. Just going to watch it.

Ok with all that being said. I did a compression check. I did this with the throttle fully open & the choke open. Left side clean burning side 79 psi. Right 80 psi. I also checked the Kohler service manual & they said you should not have any thing under 90 psi. So it looks like this thing is getting tired. I will say it does not smoke at all while running or at start up. I did mow with it Sunday for about 20 min. it ran good just rough at idle. I don't know if it did anything when I replaced the other fuel line or not. Maybe it had some kind of junk in the carb that passed through if that's possible I don't know. With the compression where it is wonder how much time is left.

Been in your situation with a M18 having low compression like that. I think others will agree: looks for a repower and use it until it quits. Unless you sink boku bucks into it there is no saving that engine. Use it until it dies then repower with another M18 or Command or similar :beerchug:

Well, now is when we try Bon-ami bar cleaner. :)

Review post #23.

But check out the carb while you're at it and recheck the color on the plugs.

Engine clearances an compression readings and other specs are spec'd for a fully serviceable engine that will run a lifetime or hours without service. How many hours do you need out of that engine? Sounds like it will run a long time yet.

keep in mind all gauges have a + or - of accuracy , I wouldn't be condemning it off of the readings you have. there's hi quality gauges and cheap ones. is it using oil? check crankcase pressure is another test that can be done , compare your gauge to a known good one? even a tired motor can run good