Andy, Mark is right, check your compression.  You have a cylinder that
has zero compression.  Probably what has happened is that one of your
push rods has gotten uncentered from the lifter and it holding a valve
open.  Don't feel bad this is a common thing to happen.  I know about
this problem, try to keep it from happening and it still happens to me.
The best way I have found to be sure that all of your push rods are
centered in the lifters is to use a maglight and shine it down each push
rod tube one at a time and visually confirm that the push rods are
centered.  I almost guarantee that you will find at least one that is
off center.  Let us know what you find out.

Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com

Andy Morse wrote:
> 86 syncro....Ever since I adjusted the valves( I know I did them right, plug wires on are on the right spaces, new distributer cap, new plugs now, new fuel pump) I still haven't been able to get the van to run right. One moment I can get it running but doesn't seem to be firing on all cylinders, then another time I can't keep it idling, another time it won't start. Before I adjusted the valves all was fine except for a finicky fuel pump, unless it was some other sypmtom. Gasoline is fresh.
>
> I'm really beside myself, I just spent a sh*t load of time replacing the heater motor, brake lines, brake master cylinder, new battery, new starter, fuel pump, fuel filter, distributor cap, plugs, oil change....and all of the sudden it doesn't run anymore, I am so puzzled at this one! ok whining over....
>
> Looking forward to getting away from it for a few days, going camping in a tent with my two year old daughter and wishing I had done CFC!
>
> Thanks for any suggestions!
>
> Andy in Albany, NY
>
>