I sort of checked compression by taking the plugs out and feeling it when it was turning over, I know that's not exact science but the compression felt decent. And by almost catching I mean that it almost starts, like when you hear an engine just turning over and over and what I hear is that it starts combusting for a few seconds then just turns over. I'm going to check sparks today, either way I ordered a new condenser, points, cap and rotor.