Unexpected Exercise

[Dave in Denver]

More info but not closer to solution:

- checked upper RIley valve train and all is moving clearances are
still where the were when I set then a few months ago
- checked timing gear, it rotates as i turn the engine over by hand
- took off the side cover and all of the block valves go up and down.
- it has been up to operarting temp about 10 times over the past few
months, a few drives around the block, this was the first time more
than a mile from the house.
- checked compression again and it is 30# in cylinder 1 and 0# in the
other four.
- before this episode I was seeing about 105# per cylinder compression
- looking through spark plug holes with a flashlight, I can see the pistons
go up and down
- the timing gears were aluminum when the engine was assembled. I
agree that the 7:1 riley is too much for fiber gears
- placed long Qtips down spark plug holes and did not pick up any water
or antifreeze so I believe the water system is still sealing
- the oil is at the same level as before this episode, and i don't see any
water in it
- I am at a real loss as to why I have no compession

Before I pull the Riley head I am going to do some more thinking.

Thanks, Dave