Date:         Sat, 24 May 2014 19:13:25 -0500
Reply-To:     JRodgers <jrodgers113@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         JRodgers <jrodgers113@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Engine Advice Needed
Comments: To: mark drillock <mdrillock@COX.NET>
In-Reply-To:  <53813118.6080204@cox.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

I don't know if this principle applies to WBX'er's or other auto engines
- but in the aviation world, in an attempt to get compression up if
there is a LEAKY VALVE - the mechanic will "Stake The Valves" - ie,
place a block of wood over the valve stem, and smack it hard with a
hammer. This drives the valve off the seat and then the valve slams back
against the seat - knocking off accumulated crustiness that can keep a
valve from closing completely. Works sometimes. sometimes doesn't. Never
been into the head of a WBX - so don't know if it's even possible. but
something to think about if it can be done.

John

On 5/24/2014 6:54 PM, mark drillock wrote:
> I have used the method I suggested to get a low reading cyl or two up to
> normal pressure on several wbx engines. Through hard experience I have
> learned not to treat a wbx valve train as though it is likely to have
> all its parts in ideal condition or in ideal adjustment. Messing with
> the adjusters should be done rarely and only for a good reason.
>
> My mention of flat spots and high spots on the adjuster tips isn't
> because I think that is the actual source of the low compression in this
> case. It is to instill awareness of common wear patterns so when someone
> has reason to touch the adjusters of a high mileage engine they are
> advised that fractionally turning an adjustor one way or the other may
> result in the opposite of the intended effect.
>
> The real objective here is to try to accurately ascertain the cause of
> the low compression reading so a further course of action can be better
> determined should one be needed. Ultimately more may have to be done
> than a simple turn of the screw.
>
> An additional value of 360 degree turns of the adjusters for this
> procedure is so you can know where you started, where you went to, and
> hopefully how to get back if that is needed. I was not suggesting that
> if loosening the adjusters 360 gets the compression up to match the
> others that you should just stop there. It is simply a quick test.
>
>
> Mark
>