Vangaurd twin 20hp starter drag

Do all twin vangaurd engines use compression release. Have a friend that tells me he tore up his teeth in ringear and starter Bendix. Had an aluminum ringear and a plastic Bendix drive. Swapped out with a steel flywheel and starter with steel Bendix. Went to start after installing a new 300 cca battery and engine will not turn over past the compression stroke.
New starter installed won't turn over more than 1/2 revolution. Even hooked the battery direct to starter stud, same thing.
Ok so a long with the compression release question, also is the starter suppose to show zero ohms from starter stub to mounting base. Doesn't sound correct to me.
Any input would be appreciated
Thanks