Long cranks and setting points, 124 k301

[Rwgarrison23]

Originally Posted by ol'George

I'd not pull the head just yet.
If the gasket were leaking, they usually don't foul the plug.
Also you can see and hear it.
it will puff compression out in the leaking area.
Post some good pix of the old gasket, both sides, if you still have it.
I'd be more inclined to think either you have a fuel mixture problem or worn
bore/rings.
As Coop says usually a new gasket does not leak soon, and, if it didn't seal because of uneven surfaces, it will just push compression out, but not foul a plug.
I reread all your posts, didn't see where you checked the head properly for true
ness
Lets assume it is.
Put some regular gas in it as you sure as hell don't need hi octane with maybe 7 to 1 compression ratio on these old workhorses.
install a new plug.
start it and warm it up a few minutes, then open the throttle WFO(full speed)
and note where the main jet screw is set at, then slowly turn it in, (clockways)
till the engine falters like it is running out of fuel (it is) and take note where it is.
Then turn the needle back counterclockwise past where you originally started,continuing till it again falters running rich and emitting black smoke,
again noting where it is.
Right between those 2 places is real close to where the main jet should be set.
return engine to idle, and then set the low speed needle to where the engine sounds "happy"
now adjust the speed of the idle if need be
( the screw that keeps the butterfly open/ closed a bit)
(You can repeat this procedure if you feel the need to get it closer, but usually once gets it right)
Post your results.

Will do.

Originally Posted by cooperino

Look at posts 77,78,79,80.

You said you trued the head. Im trying to help you here but it seems your sort of chasing your tail. I know you say you dont have a youtube account but they are free to get. A video of it running probably would have solved a lot. These engines make a pretty distinct sound when they have a blown head gasket. If you did not actually true the head by resurfacing then yes you may have blown the new gasket. That usually does not happen in the first hour or 2 of running however. Especially since you seemed to indicate that yours was pretty flat.

I will create a account and figure out how to post it on here. Hopefully tonight.