Chad's 1959 MGA

 First, here's a pic of the old top up in position.  The frame and header rail seem to be fine, will just need to install new material. Then the good news on the engine is that, spinning on the starter with no plugs, it showed 40 psi oil pressure.  Good indication that the lower portion of the engine is probably fine. Next checked compression.  Had zero on cylinder #1, 60psi on #2, then 40 on both #3 and #4.  The low compression may correct itself after startup, but zero is a big concern.  Removed valve cover and found valve #1 (an exhaust valve) was stuck in the open position: After some internet research, I left valve #1 with lifter on back side of cam and doused the spring and valve guide with PB Blaster.  Hoping that some "crud" has gotten on the valve stem, and PB Blaster frees it up.  The valve spring is applying constant pressure to close the valve.  May try a few other tricks before we pull the cylinder head for a valve job.

 Ray and I have started another project.  This is a 1959 MGA 1500, which has not run since 1984, when it suffered slight front body damage.  Here's some pics as rcd: We got the car to the shop and washed it off first thing.  Sure was dirty! Then spent about an hour cleaning the mouse nest stuff out of the inside.  The smell of urine was pretty strong. Today we did an assessment of what parts we need to get the mechanicals in good order.  Brake and clutch hydraulic components, brake lines, cooling hoses, and a few flexible lines at the engine are all now on order.  Engine turns pretty free, removed spark plugs and sprayed PB Blaster to soak and remove any rust on cylinder walls.  Drained gas tank, very smelly gas.  Front end's slight damage includes pushing the bumper up to that the hand crank won't align with the front of the engine.  All repairable stuff.  Should be fun!