New project- rod knock ?

[jkp62]

Newly acquired Craftsman tractor with Kohler 18 horse Pro single. I`m used to my Kawasaki twin, this big single makes alot more noise- not sure if exhaust or a rod knock. I pulled the plug wire , and turned the engine over- I could hear no knock, Is this a valid test ?

 

[bertsmobile1]

No
Put a screwdriver or similar object on the piston and push on the piston slightly as it passes through TDC & BDC
If the rod is loose you will feel it click as the journal goes from pulling to pushing