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  #1   IP: 75.82.181.203
Old 10-21-2017, 03:18 PM
CamaroMan CamaroMan is offline
 
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2 cylinders - 0 compression :/

Well now I know why this thing would not run after a full ignition tune up despite having run ok 3 days before (now i think it was alway on 3 cylinders as it huffed and revved slowly like a diesel!)

I have the manifold off and sprayed penetrating lube onto each of the 4 valve stems -

What are my next steps? The valves seem to point up so how do I get them out for a steel wire brush? Do I need to remove the top head? Sorry never seen the inside of one of these -

Could it be stuck lifters?

Any advice welcome!

Cyl 3 and 4 show 85 and 90 psi respectively..


*** Since its 1 and 2 that are dead I highly suspect a blown head gasket after thinking about it more clearly.

Last edited by CamaroMan; 10-21-2017 at 03:23 PM.
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  #2   IP: 24.152.132.65
Old 10-21-2017, 03:31 PM
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I propose removing the valve cover and observing the motion of the valve stems for #1 & #2 cylinders as the engine is cranked before jumping to any conclusions. Look for two that do not remain in contact with the lifters as they drop.

edit:
It's becoming apparent to me that you might not have the Moyer Marine Service and Overhaul manual. It should be required reading for A-4 owners and mechanics alike, would be an excellent guide to an old technology flathead engine that is rarely seen anymore.
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Last edited by ndutton; 10-21-2017 at 03:44 PM. Reason: clarification
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Old 10-21-2017, 04:00 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ndutton View Post
It's becoming apparent to me that you might not have the Moyer Marine Service and Overhaul manual. It should be required reading for A-4 owners and mechanics alike, would be an excellent guide to an old technology flathead engine that is rarely seen anymore.
+1!
Neil was reading my mind.
You really need to get the MMI "Bible" ASAP.

We're all very glad to answer questions and help troubleshoot on this site but the bible is required reading around here.
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  #4   IP: 73.129.213.235
Old 10-21-2017, 04:12 PM
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It has also happened that the lifter can get stuck. When this
happened to me, the valve moved freely, but the lifter stuck at the top of its cycle. 0 lbs of pressure. I had to remove and polish it before things worked well.

James
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  #5   IP: 75.82.181.203
Old 10-22-2017, 01:28 AM
CamaroMan CamaroMan is offline
 
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thanks all - yes I have a pdf for the atomic - i was going to do exactly that 2moro (my wife usually accompanies me on outings lol except today)..

I need to have another look at the motor re valves/lifters - but judging from the build up on some valves i think a valve clean up / head gasket replacement wd not be a bad idea! this thing is OLD!

At the very least it would mean a fresh start re top end - instead of trying to bandaid sticking valves form here on forward, in deep early is better than in deep down the road adrift at sea!

Yes I had the same issue on a diesel truck i bought last yr, one lifter was stuck (exhaust) - NOT a pleasant sound. I too sanded out the bore (it wasnt the lifter - i checked). Been running tops since -
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  #6   IP: 24.152.132.65
Old 10-22-2017, 01:43 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by CamaroMan View Post
thanks all - yes I have a pdf for the atomic -
We weren't talking about the old Universal manual if that's the pdf you have. There's a big difference between it and the manual created by MOYER MARINE.
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  #7   IP: 71.178.91.146
Old 10-22-2017, 10:54 PM
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Yeah, you need this manual if really want to do any work on an A-4...it is the bible.
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