No need to compress it, you want it to be extended before you start the engine. It is VERY bad to run the engine with it compressed, even if the "official" procedure says to do that. Basically, the chain will be loose and slap around a lot until it can cause the tensioner to pop open. It is much better to put it in extended so that the chain will remain tight at all times, even if it is more difficult to install like that.