Why is compression so low?

Didn't read the old post, but if everything is new and good, then the timing of the valves may not be 'in phase' with the crank. As if the timing chain or belt skipped a tooth or three.

I'm with Brent - recheck the valve timing (the timing marks on the cam pulleys compared with TDC). I bet you will find it at least one tooth off.

In the original thread I saw you set the ignition timing by eyeball on the distributor, but you will need a timing light to get it close enough to run right... maybe even to run at all. First check the valve timing by the marks. When the valve timing is right the distributor should go right back where it was originally and it should be good.

Mike

Cam timing way off? If the valves open and close at the wrong times, it won't build proper compression.

That can happen when the timing belt or chain is installed. If the timing isn't right the valves don't close at the right times to get full compression.

If the rings are no good or won't seat, that can blow the compression out too. You can try a spoonful of oil into the plug hole just before testing the compression again. If the compression comes up, you have faulty rings, if not, look to the valve timing.

Mike

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If you failed to prop the throttle open, and the engine was dry, the compression will be WAY LOW. You may have damaged the igniter too when you cranked with the wires disconnected. Have you listened to the fuel pump, and tried a bit of starting fluid to see if it will fire up even for a second?

'Curly'

Soooo, find out WHY its so low!

Start with a leak-down test. If there are components leaking that shouldnt you can find them easily with some smart listening.

Leakdown testers are available for under $100 and I just saw one very cheap at Harbor Freight in their recent sale flyer. If you do ANY engine work this tool will save you LOTS of guesswork.

-SP

fasci> I've posted about this car before, engine rebuilt and still won't > start...