Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Compression release problem, briggs stratton, cam lobes

Question
I have a Briggs & Stratton 3.5 hp horizontal shaft engine mounted on a side walk edge-er. Engine model 91232 type 0129. There is no valve movement when the crankshaft is rotated. The illustrated parts list on the B&S site shows the standard one piece camshaft and gear, but when I opened the case to see what going on I find that the cam and gear is a multi-piece assembly with a spring arrangement allowing the cam lobs to turn freely on the cam shaft. This is for “easy start” compression release I guess, but I have never encountered one before.
Can you tell me how this is supposed to work and where I can find a parts breakdown of it so I can figure out what’s wrong with this one?


Answer
As the engine spins faster after it starts the spring cause the cam to change timing and increase compression.

Are you sure some has not changed the engine cover and replaced it with one with a different type number?

What is the code number and how old is the edger.  If the valves do not move at all then with the cam lobes are bad, the tappet clearance are incorrect or the valve and or seat have a problem.

Have you removed the valves and tappets?
Let me know.
Eric