Re: steps of compression test
You are my kinda dork though! You will fit in well here.
My first was also a Johnson 18hp from 1959. Almost identical motor to yours. I was the same way, couldn't sleep because there was so much to learn and see and take apart and figure out. When that thing fired up the first time...what a rush. Once the carb was properly adjusted, it would idle so smooth you wouldn't beleive it.
Keep asking questions, I did, and everything will work out great. Now I have no fear of taking them apart and putting them together and they so far have worked everytime.
I am nogotiating now for a 40hp Johnson and can't wait to take it apart. I did a bunch of threads when I did mine with lots of pictures which you may find interesting.
Good luck and keep us posted!