The compression release should be a metal button that projects from the cylinder head and extends out from the cylinder cover so that it can be depressed before starting. There should be an immediate lessening of compression when pushed. If no such result, the release mechanism should be removed and cleaned, or replaced. Proper starting is to pump the primer button several times to fill the bulb with fuel, then set the choke closed, the ignition on and set the fast idle on the throttle. Pull the engine through several times until it pops, then release the choke part way, and try to start. Don't pull the throttle during this as it will release the fast idle setting. Once the engine fires, the compression release should self-reset for maximum compression. Hope this makes sense and helps!