The compression release feature, on the Briggs, has one of the valves that doesn't close fully on its seat, up just enough to allow the compression to escape, so the engine turns easier. That is what i read here in this column some time ago. By one of the more learned heads than I!
They said that after the engine starts, that little bit of an opening is not sufficent to affect the operation of the engine at speed, just when starting!

Actually this B&S engines does have a mechanical compression release. Occasionally they do come apart. Could also be a bad camshaft. Are you sure you are adjusting them correctly? I have detailed instructions plus a compression release test IF you would like them. Address below, put in proper format and remind me, model number, what you want, etc.

Walt Conner
wconner5 at frontier dot com

Request has been sent, Walt.

I trickle charged the battery for 24 hrs. and tested the compression with. It cranks until it meets resistance on the first cycle, bringing up the compression to 65# and then it continues to crank easily thereafter.

Walt-
You've forgotten more than I know about Briggs, but-
The 283H00 is an OHV, while a 283700 is a flat head.
Does that make a difference?

If that engine older flat head I would remove the heads decarbonize the combustion chamber. I would also disassemble the starter and clean it up before I would replace any parts. Usually the head gaskets are the thick laminated metal type that can be reused over IMO..

Thanks Bill, yes I knew the engine was an OHV engine from the letter in the 4th position. One of the "Newer Improved" OHV engines. New style of counter balance engines.

Walt Conner