Your 96 shouldnt have compression release unless it is key start, which I dont believe existed in 96, but I may be wrong. If so, FT4M can correct me (as usual
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You should have 160-170psi compression. Make sure to hold the carb wide open with your hand while testing, dont rely on the pedal. If the compression is low, these engines are really cheap and easy to rebuild
I can take a pic of the airbox, orientation, etc in my 93 in a bit. Mine even still has the rubber strap for the airbox