Compression test on Toro self propelled

[journey005]

Is the tool that does compression tests cost a lot of money? I would like to fix this toro on my own but im not very skilled. I read somewhere that a compression test is a way to see if mower worth repairing. Mower is about 22yrs old but only cut 1200sq ft of yard an all flat for most of its life. I bought it used about 20yrs ago. Can Anyone help?

 

[EngineMan]

compression tester | eBay

 

[DaveTN]

Hold your thumb over the spark plug hole and have someone pull the starter cord. If the compression blows your thumb off, then it will have enough compression to run. No need to buy a compression gauge really. I've got one but rarely use it.

 

[Rivets]

A compression test will not tell you if it is worth repairing. Check for spark, fuel getting in the cylinder and see if it fires. No fire, not worth stick money into, unless you're in love with it.

 

[journey005]

It still starts and runs. Its just that it seems as if its not wanting to run if it overheats. And is seems as if it overheats easy.

 

[Rivets]

Try taking off the shroud and give the fins a good cleaning. Should eliminate the overheating.