I did the compression check and it averaged between 80 and 100 so at 306000 miles that's probably ok. When I pulled the plugs I did see that they are very worn and i will be replacing them today as well as a cam sensor from standard ignition.

 

I'd say far from ok, I'm not sure but I think you want at least 120-150. my 200k motor would do 150

 

Ok how many revolutions would pump up that much pressure? I only went four or so.

I may need to get a better compression checker because I noticed it was not holding at the gauge it would leak back. It is an old unit by the time I got around to read it the dial needle was already dropping.

 

I usually crank five or six times, or, until the needle stops climbing.

I bought a NEW compression tester, and it work ONCE, after that, it wouldn't hold the pressure. Not a happy camper.....

100psi is min spec for compression. If you are below that....... time for a rebuild/new engine.

 

I think I'm gonna go by and see if the auto parts store has a good compression tester fo loan and check again.

 

Make sure you get the oring to seal good, these deep valve covers can make it hard to see/verify how tight it is. I always give a shot of WD-40 or something on the threads of the tester and down the plug hole (doubles as a little pick me up for the rings too) to help lubricate the threads on install and removal.

I bought a brand new one also, some years ago, tested two holes and pretty soon it seemed like I was getting no reading. I said this cant be true, it ran smooth, no misfire just burn a little oil so doing a ring check. Pretty soon I was fumbling with it and the needle indicator fell off inside the gauge. Like well WTF. Called the store up right away and asked for an exchange. They didn't have the exact same model (which not sure I wanted it) but another one so paid the difference. Still using that one, with what I assume are still accurate readings.

 

Mystery solved, guys. Thank you for your advice and help. It turns out that number 2 cylinder exhaust lifter collapsed and dropped out the rocker arm. And busted the head. I haven't looked at the driver's side head yet. The either way I'm a long way from finishing up.Thanks again for all of your help.This project has ended

 

Here's a question for the site administrators.Do I need to delete this thread now?Or will it be deleted automatically?I don't know what to do here.Thank you

 

Nope. You don't need to do anything. We actually keep these threads around (forever and ever, amen) as they generally contain valuable information. So, the next guy coming down the pike doing a search (yeah, I know.....) can find a potential answer to his own questions.

 

4.7s like to eat rockers and lifters, if you're looking long term on the motor I'd put all of them in. You don't have to remove the cam just get the follower on base circle with a little effort they snap right out