3.1 Heads Shaved now no compression

[ratnin57]

My 2000 Malibu 3.1 had blown head gaskets and machine shop said they milled heads 20 thousandths. After reinstalling heads I have no compression on any cylinders. I have the long and short push rods in correct position and engine ran before tear down. I don't know if heads were ever milled before but I need some advice on finding shorter push rods or shimming rocker arms. I remember on other american V8 engines you could buy shorter pushrods if you milled your heads past 25 thousandths. I can not find this option at my local big box auto parts store.

[oldblu65]

Shaving the head surfaces would cause you to have a higher compression ! As for the push rod length being off now , you'll have to get a tool which is used to determine proper length . Most people don't have one of these in their toolbox so I suggest checking with local speed shops or see if Autozone ( or your favorite parts store ) has one you can borrow ? Good luck !

[ratnin57]

I got it running guys. I pulled front valve cover and had someone crank engine and rocker arms were barely moving. I kept compression gauge in number one cylinder and after cranking engine for extended time the pressure came up to 30 lbs and engine finally fired up and then I got 60lbs and after running about 5 minutes it was up to 180 lbs. I have owned Chevrolets all my life and been working on cars for 40 years and I have never had one with all the lifters totally collapsed with no compression like this one. All is well as cooling fans are running and temperature is running normal sitting in front of garage. I want to thank you guys for your help and I'm thankful there are forums like this one.