Just an update 
I've been rebuilding the carby on this mower as could use on this base with a new engine even if I never get this one going.  
I did get a gauge and check the compression,  it only got 30 PSI 
I checked on my good Victa commando and it has 80 PSI compression and starts first go.  
Do you think a mower can even start with 30 PSI or is that way too low?  
Thanks