The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Why do you think it quit?

Here’s the deal …the old one is coming out and the new one is going in.
The tired 216 is to be replaced with a fresh overhauled 235 full pressure.

So, just for the sake of discussion, what do you think was/is the issue with the 216?
I thought I’d give it one last chance at revival before pullin’ it.
Yes, it was tired but running fine on its last leg before quitting.

On a bright Saturday morning I drove it for about an hour (started good, ran good),
parked at the Marina for about an hour, came out and it wouldn’t start.

It’s a “splasher” and was about 3/4 qt low…..? is that a big deal for a splasher?
checked & re-gapped plugs,
checked & re-gapped points,
checked for fire,
checked for fuel,
wouldn’t even start with Starter Fluid.
even tried pushing…no start.

Got it home (on a flat-bed)
first thing I did was check the compression several times with 2 different compression testers,
got the same readings every time (both testers)..…
#1-0,#2-0,#3-0,#4-30lbs, #5-0, #6-0
even #4 at 30lbs is momentary, it too drops to “0” seconds later.

I didn't notice anything unusual in the way of sounds or smoke (but I wasn't really looking).
It still turns over fine,

What do you think happened?

Jim