Hi folks, I'm new here. I've had a look around, and a few years ago was on the Jockey Journal board, which I think was somehow related. I don't know how you play this game yet, so feel free to let me know how this is supposed to go. I've got a 1959 Dodge Mayfair with a flathead 6 (251 CID) that has good compression in 5 of 6 cylinders. 1 through 5 are all around 130. No 6 is down around 90. This car burns a bit of oil, you can see it when it's cold and you rev it. I pulled the head and the cylinders all look good, there is a tiny scratch in no. 6, but you can't feel it with your fingernail. The head gasket is copper and looks perfect. I've pulled the head off to have a look around. I don't know these engines at all, and I can't figure out how to adjust the valves. I think with low compression, the best guess is that it's worn out rings or too tight valves. Obviously, I'm hoping it's the valves, and I don't have to go too far into the engine. Anyone know how to adjust these valves? Billy
Those old flathead sixes are a bitch to work on the valve adjustment. The access plate is in behind the manifolds. I found it easiest to pull the manifolds out of the car first, then you can at least see what you're trying to do. You still have to stand on your head to do anything! I bet the problem is the rings, not the valve adjustment. Valves get lots worse real quick, losing more compression than what your engine shows. The scratch on the wall is a giveaway, too. 90 pounds isn't the end of the world anyway, unless you want it perfect you can just keep running it. I would do a leakdown test right away, though, just for peace of mind. A standard air hose fitting will thread in to the plug hole. Apply pressure and listen at the carb and the exhaust for valve leaks, and at the crankcase vent for rings. Turn the engine over so the cylinder you are testing is at firing position, put it in High gear and pull the park brake, so it doesn't turn over when you hit it with the air.
Do a search on this website: http://www430.pair.com/p15d24/mopar_forum/index.php There's a pile of Chrysler flathead wizards on there and I believe there's a pretty damn good how to thread on adjusting valves. Todd 58 Regent
The Jalopy Journal
