UK Car Repair: Daewoo Lanos 1999 1.4 5Dr, daewoo lanos, hydraulic lifters

Question
QUESTION: Hi

I have a Daewoo Lanos which cuts out if I start the engine and let it run in idle. Engine is also very jumpy. Once it cuts out it will not restart for at least 20 minutes and there is no compression in any of the cylinders. I have changed the head gasket, piston rings. plugs and also checked camshafts etc... but still have the same problem. All valves etc... have been checked and are ok.

Thanks for your help

ANSWER: If it starts it must have compression!  Do you mean that when it stalls it no longer has compression?

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the speedy response.

Yes when I try to restart it after it stalls it has no compression and just makes a whining noise when I try to restart it. If I then leave it for 20 minutes it starts but then stalls again.

Answer
My guess would be a valve problem, are they hydraulic lifters? if so it sounds like the oil pressure may be too high or the set clearance is wrong, so, as the engine warms up the natural expansion prevents complete valve closure, then slowly the pressure releases and it can start. You first need to have someone fit a pressure gauge to the engine and see what the pressure is. This is a rather unusual situation and I would like you to keep me informed.