Swapped out a blown 1986 b2000 for a 1989/90 b2200. Also put on a Weber carb. And removed “unnecessary” components along passenger side, under hood. What is the likelihood that it’s timing belt or distributor? Compression test was done with alternate power source and distributor disconnected - just cranking over on each spark plug. I am betting on head gasket but curious what y’all think? I haven’t tried the ring sealant engine treatment yet but I have some. Should I try it? Or will that just be a hindrance to accurately diagnosing the compression issue?
Thanks for your consideration!
My Best,
Mallory

 

Remove the head and see what you have.......don't try to cure the engine with an pour-in treatment......it won't work, and it just adds issues when you go to fix it the correct way.

The low compression may be a blown head gasket, broken ring(s), corroded cylinder walls from coolant/water sitting in them and rusting the cylinder(s) while waiting on the previous owner to repair the engine, burnt or broken intake or exhaust valve, etc........you won't know until you remove the cylinder head and diagnosis the problem, unfortunately.

 

Bent valves are another possibility. That can happen from timing belt failure. As previously stated, you have to pull the head to see what’s going on. Remanufactured heads are not too expensive. Here’s an example

https://www.ebay.com/itm/14340795794...mis&media=COPY

 

These are NON-interference engines. And the distributor would have no influence on compression.

Unless #3 and #4 pistons have holes in them, zero compression in #3 and #4 indicates an issue with cylinder head/camshaft. If zero compression on all cylinders, I'd check the timing belt installation/orientation/camshaft timing.

If mine, I'd first disconnect the battery, pull the valve cover, and turn the engine over manually clockwise using a 21mm socket on the crankshaft pulley bolt (or a 17mm socket on the camshaft bolt after pulling the top timing cover) and see if the #3 and #4 valves are opening and closing like they should (use #1 and #2 as a guide). You should be able to feel compression - if any - by putting your finger in a spark plug hole while doing this.

 

Good to know thanks. So I stand corrected. A failed timing belt should “not” result in bent valves.

 

I'm aware of the confusion, as some online sites or books mistakenly detailed these B2000 and B2200 engines as "interference".