I have a 18.5 Briggs and Stratton engine that was was running fine with a rapping noise then decided to quit. I pulled the plug and it had little to no compression when turned over. The spark was good and it was getting fuel. I pulled the cover off the head and found one of the rocker arms pretty loose against the rod. I also found metal shavings in the draining oil and block. When I turn the top to crank it over, the piston moves up and down most of the time. Every once in a while, and inconsitantly, the crank won't move until I back it off a bit and then sometimes it will pass past that same point. I' guessing broken connecting rod? Worth fixing or replace? Thanks

I'm guessing bent rod.

You won't know until you take it apart.

Hi.
If this Is a Briggs Intek
This was the engine the camshaft was breaking on which operates the push-rods.
But Like KISS said you will not know until it comes apart.
Luck

Hi,
Would first change oild (and filter) and adjust the valves to 0.004-0.006" if is a twin. Singles had the camshaft problem.
Peace,
Clarke

18.5 would be a single