Back from the dead (1989 Par Car)

[banzo]

I'm bringing my inherited vintage 1989 Par Car back from the dead. After sitting in storage for 7 years with a broken steering box (thanks older brother), I finally ordered a new one for it. Knowing that was the only reason my grandpa parked it, I am hoping that the engine is salvageable. Looking to keep it golf course worthy, I need a little help ironing out the bugs.

So far this is what I've done:
-Removed and soaked the carburetor to remove the gunk
-Removed the piston head housing and cleaned the piston head
-Replaced the spark plug and the fuel lines
-Cleaned the fuel tank
-Set the timing for the motor
-Installed a fresh battery
-Reset Governor

Being from Canada, this cart was only used 4 months out of the year, and with my grandpa being in his 70's when he purchased it, it probably didn't get too much use.

What I need help with now:
-Slow running rate
-55psi compression both forward and backward (probably related)
-Idle running after foot off pedal

With little money for more parts, what should I be looking at next? Is there something I have forgotten to look at or change? Do I have to rebuild the engine and replace the seals to get better compression in the cylender? My research says it usually is about 100 PSI.

As a side note, when I removed the float bowl on the carburetor the gasket stuck and broke. In a pinch, I replaced it with a rubber band. Should I actually invest in a new gasket for that?

When it comes to parts (seals, gaskets ect...) any suggestions on where to shop? Being from Canada, there can be large shipping fees (and duties at that!).

[mikesmotortoys]

Compression is terrible! Did you install a new head gasket with the "cleanup"? Or re-use the old one (which is a no-no)?

[banzo]

Come to think of it, I never saw one (thus, not thinking about replacing it). Is it a tin, or rubber gasket? If its rubber, could I use silicone to compensate the lack of one?

[mikesmotortoys]

Don't know for sure, probably metal. Things to consider before fully erecting from the dead.

[banzo]

Well, I replaced the head gasket, to no avail. My dad suggested I soak the cylinder in diesel for a day, which I did. Great success. I'm up to 105 psi now. Mechanically complete, now all I want to do is paint it.

[sabercat]

wow, never heard of soaking an enigine in diesel, glad it worked!

[banzo]

The diesel is supposed to free up and lubricates gummy rings and seals. I had been using brake cleaner before, but it didn't lubricate the shrunken compression ring on the piston.

[sabercat]

i'll have to remember that, thanks!

[tonyton]

Originally Posted by banzo

The diesel is supposed to free up and lubricates gummy rings and seals. I had been using brake cleaner before, but it didn't lubricate the shrunken compression ring on the piston.

I use diesel fuel to clean parts. It will break down carbon deposits and as banzo said, lubricate....Also, It is hard to light on fire, unlike some other solvents

[banzo]

I'm having issues with the engine idling after I release the gas. Is that the kill switch located under the driver's seat? There's a mechanical linkage that goes from the gas pedal to a "stopper" that touches this electrical looking switch on the floor under the seat. If that's the thing, what should I do with it?