re: Interesting timing problems... ideas

[farna@xxxxxxx]

Classic symptoms of too little compression. Could be valve related, but only if you're very lucky! First thing to do is a compression check. Sounds like it's every cylinder (or most of them) low on compression. At least one valve in every one would have to be burnt or stuck to cause this. The only other thing I can think of that might cause low compression is the timing chain is way off. That's not likely unless the chain was changed by said "mechanic" when he was messing with the engine. If you run it with the timing that far advanced, it will eventually burn holes in one or more pistons. Sounds like it's time for a major rebuild -- or a 4.0L EFI swap. That would have more power than the 304 and be cheaper than a proper rebuild if you find a good running engine. 

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original message --------------------------------------

Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2006 17:55:50 -0800 (PST)
From: Jesse <j2sax@xxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Interesting timing problems... ideas
To: mail@xxxxxxxxxxxx


 Attempting to set the timing with a light is
WAAAAAAYY off.  When the engine runs decent, the
timing mark is still about 25 degrees clockwise from 5
degrees BTDC.  If I even attempt to get it close, the
engine almost cranks backwards!  

My belief is that some of the valves are a little slow
due to sitting for several years and that the timing
chain has jumped. 

What do you think of my theory?  I am probably going
to swap in one of the good running 360's rather than
delve deeper unless someone has any fabulous ideas.  I
can swap the engines in a about the same time as
changing the timing chain/cover water pump, oil pan
gasket , re-stabbing the dist and all that timing
chain stuff.  

Do well and have a great weekend, 

Jesse