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So how difficult is it for a reasonably talented person to take the engine apart and change the compression valve?

Very very hard to do since the Briggs don't have one.

First there is no decmpression valve on today’s small engines. Depending on the age of the engine you have an ACR (auto compression release) mounted on the camshaft or a small bump on the intake lobe of the camshaft.

Rivets said:

First there is no decmpression valve on today’s small engines. Depending on the age of the engine you have an ACR (auto compression release) mounted on the camshaft or a small bump on the intake lobe of the camshaft.

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OK, so I got the terminology wrong, I’m sorry. Yes I’m talking about that large gear with the lobe on it that takes the compression away while the engine is cranking.

Replacing the camshaft is not difficult. The devil is getting there and back. Gather everything you need before hand. Gaskets, oil seals etc. Be prepared for broken bolts etc. Take lots of pictures and label and separate things as the are removed. Make sure the timing marks are lined up and most important remember the oil before starting. You'd be surprised what you can forget when you get tired.

This project just took a sideways turn. If you replace the camshaft you are going to have to check the valve clearances and most likely have to adjust them. Now you have added a new direction to your project. This will not be easy unless you have an OHV engine. Post all engine numbers and we might find a service manual for you.

Now there you go Rivets. It all about which Briggs engine the OP has. And sometimes with OHV all that is needed is a valve adjustment.

And on some you strip out the threads of the sump so be prepare with some Helicoils. For some reason the 31 series OHV are bad strip out the threads.

Star, I don’t understand your comment about me or my post? I can just go from the info the OP provides. He asked how difficult the job would be and I gave him the best answer I could, depending on which engine he had. If my answer is wrong, what is your expert response based on the info he has provided. I even requested engine numbers, which you are constantly complaining people don’t provide.

Have you ever received a compliment? That like saying Good Work there.

Sorry I recouping from dealing with SearsPartsDirect today. The idiots is saying it politely.

Many times, but never from you. Most times just questioning my replies. This would be a first.

OK, thank you all for your advice, replies, etc. After much careful thought and consideration I decided to just keep on turning the engine counterclockwise. I’m blocking the air intake as I start the engine. It’s an extra one minute from my lawn mowing, but it’s less stress. Thank you.