just curious

[TuckerMac]

I was turning the fan on my 48 H to get to the pulley lube point and I was amazed I could turn the motor without much effort. Should I borrow a compression tester? The motors I an used to need the plugs out to turn that easily. I should add that the tractor starts and runs fine.
 

[gene bender]

Quit worrying if it starts and runs its just fine use and enjoy.
 

[TuckerMac]

Thanks, I do enjoy it every Sunday for a "cigar ride". I just get curious about this old girl, I had to learn about timing, governors and carbs to get her running properly. I enjoy the mechanical aspect as much as the rides.
 

[David R Inman]

Some times it takes more effort than others, but I usually I take the ability to make the motor turn by rotating the fan or pulling on the fan belt as a good sign...it's not locked up.
 

[JRSutton]

I agree that if it runs ok don't worry about it - but if you want to satisfy your curiosity, check it out.

but I'd also check your valve lash while you're poking around in there - good idea to do it anyways.

And if you want to check your compression without borrowing a gauge, just put a little oil in the spark plug hole of each cylinder and see if it gets any harder to turn. If it does you know your cylinders are worn. (do the valve adjustment first of course)

... and knowing that your cylinders/rings are worn... all you've got to do is ignore it if it runs well enough.

and - this is probably obvious, but I've seen people forget - be damn sure the ignition is off when you're turning the engine by the fan! It could very easily start up on you.
 

[TuckerMac]

Thanks for the advice. I may adjust the valves just to be sure. I do not imagine it is difficult.
 

[JRSutton]

No it's not hard at all.

One of those things that'll take you an hour the first time as you figure it all out - and from then on you'll be an expert and it'll be a 10 minute job.