Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

I’ve noticed a slight weep after removing the nut in order to replace the distributor cable. Did a compression test and all cylinders show 30psi but I’m getting a tiny bit of white smoke. Before pulling the head, thought I’d try here for thoughts. Realized that when I put the nut back on without the distributor clip, I might not get full torque without a spacer (was having electrical issues so was testing the motor). Since the head gasket seal seems to have been broken, am I safe to just put my new distributor cable on when it arrives and torque that nut down properly with the clip or would folks advise pulling the head and replacing the gasket? Curious on people preferences for a prob like this.
Thanks!
Mark

Re: Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

Seeping coolant around head studs is not uncommon. I used aluminized stop leak in the radiator and the problem went away. The engine only had about 1,000 miles on a rebuild. If that does not work no option except to pull the head. With 30 psi there may be a rebuild in the future.

Re: Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

How did you check the compression? The proper way is with all spark plugs out, the throttle wide open, and three compression strokes on the cylinder your testing.

Re: Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

Re: Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

30psi equates to a compression ratio of about 2:1... would an engine even run with a CR that low?


With all the head nuts torqued correctly, I would redo the compression test as described above in post #3.

Re: Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

[QUOTE=Chuck Sea/Tac;1768376]How did you check the compression? The proper way is with all spark plugs out, the throttle wide open, and three compression strokes on the cylinder your testing.[/QUOTE

Also should be done on a warm/hot engine.

Re: Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

A friends engine..with the oil pan off,but everything else assembled I could turn the engine over ,full revolutions,by hand..using the crankshaft throws,and it ran.

Re: Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

I pulled a B engine apart and the pistons actually fell out after the rods were disconnected. It must have ran prior to sitting. Not much compression needed to run.

Re: Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

Re: Slight coolant seep on number 8 head nut (distributor cable)
 

Borrow another gauge or try in in another motor before you pull your motor apart....