QuestionHi Joe, im stumped on this one. Triumph Spitfire 1976, recently acquired. it ran rough, replaced needle and seats (SU units), cleaned dirty fuel, it did run, but had blown head gasket btwn #! . replaced gasket, now wont start. has fuel, spark , but only 35 or so pounds of compression in all cylinders. Im totally stumped. have any suggestions?? the only thing i can think of is too thick head gasket, but unlikely, or some timing problem I dont know about???
AnswerAgain, not a particular expert on the car, but I can probably point you the right way...
1) Breathing... It's unlikely, but is there any way you could have altered the *cam* timing? If so, it's probably not breathing properly. Check the timing chain sprocket alignments by the manual. Also re breathing, valve adjustment is critical after a new gasket. (And check again once you get it running.)
2) Sealing... If timing and tappets OK, it sounds like the gasket again, or possibly the head. 35 psi is much too low for any engine to run (so forget about carburetors or ignition timing for the moment). I think, it should be at least 120 psi. I would take the head off again and have it checked for flatness and ground if necessary. Also check v carefully for cracks (which would be a *big* problem). I don't know where you got the gasket. Try a Triumph owners club site, or another AllExpert, for advice on quality sources for a new one. But a slightly over-thick gasket couldn't cause that low a compression if it was sealing properly. Follow use instructions carefully, particularly about cleaning the block and head faces, and torquing: a little at a time, correct order, etc. If any stud won't take the torque, head off again and replace it (actually, replace all would be best).
As in my other replies, sorry not to be more definite; maybe someone will ask me a Healey question sometime!
Good luck!
Jo
