Spridget wont start

[Marvinator]

I have a 66 1098 spridget that I pulled the engine to fix multiple oil leaks. Fixed the leaks added new clutch and put back in car. Did not remove distributor Car was driving and running good prior to this. Now it won't fire. Has gas, spark etc. Has 2 year old battery new coil. Aftermarket starter and ignation Weber down draft carb. Won't even sputter with either. Any ideas?

 

[Marvinator]

you need more comp than that, either head gasket or valve clearance[easier to check first]

I presume it’s the head gasket based on removing the engine using the studs on the head

 

[zabond]

as your comp figures suggest you may have a blown head gasket between #2 & #3 but that doesn't explain the low comp on #1 & #2 and I cant see how using the manifold studs to lift the engine can effect the head gasket unless you loosened the head studs, I've removed mine by lifting off the rocker cover studs & on my morry using the lifting brackets which are attached under the head stud nuts at the factory, loss or low comps are usually related to worn rings, leaky valve seats or head gasket failure, what did you remove to "fix the oil leaks"?
Russ

 

[Marvinator]

I cant see how using the manifold studs to lift the engine can effect the head gasket unless you loosened the head studs, I've removed mine by lifting off the rocker cover studs & on my morry using the lifting brackets which are attached under the head stud nuts at the factory
Russ

Don’t know either, but I don’t have compression. I didn’t loosen the head nuts/studs. Had compression prior to taking out and now very little. Only scenario I can think of. Just got new gasket and ready to put on.

 

[JPSmit]

keep us posted - I must admit I remain perplexed

 

[Bayless]

Lots of engines have been pulled using those manifold studs without any problems. It sure won't start with that compression but I would expect maybe an occasional pop from #1 or 2. Before pulling the head I would try zabond's suggestion and check the valve clearances. But like JP, I'm puzzled too.

 

[JPSmit]

Not sure if you have pulled the head yet, but, in the middle of the night I wondered if you had done a leakdown test?

 

[Marvinator]

Thanks to everyone with your ideas. Turns out it was the head gasket. Blew between 3/4 cylinders. Just a coincidence it was running prior to removing the engine. Don’t believe either that lifting from the head studs caused it. This gave me the chance to re-familiar myself with the car checking all of your suggestions. New clutch works great. Thanks

 

[zabond]

glad to hear it's fixed wd
Russ

 

[Bayless]

Good news.

 

[JPSmit]

Good news.

+1

 

[DavidApp]

Great that you got it fixed.

David