Thanks BB! I’ve decided I’d like to keep it all original, although it is tempting to buy a new 550 series Briggs. However the sound of the old side valve and having my 45 back to how it was when it rolled out the door is more appealing to me. I gave the Briggs a squirt or two of oil hoping that it might pick the compression up but it made no difference. So I’m thinking valve, valve seat, clearance could be the problem. Either that or it’s pretty bad in the bore. I have a trade account with outdoor kings, so when I get it apart I’ll work out what I need and do a full rebuild. I have the machines to do valves and bore the barrel to suit an oversize piston. So there’s a few parts on the list already. I’m guessing the best way is to get the silver paint matched at a paint shop? I’m hoping I can find the decals for it also.
