Ford 1900 compression

[keith427]

I purchased a non-running Ford 1900 diesel 4x4 in the fall. I got it running and put a clutch in it. Once started runs good but smokes. I did a compression test on it yesterday and 2 cylinders have 250 psi and the other 150. I cannot find what the compression should actually be but I would assume at least 300psi. Anyone have actual numbers? It is the Shibaura diesel engine.
Keith

 

[used red MN]

A general minimum compression pressure for a diesel is 300 psi as you basically said. I don’t have a spec for that specific engine. Definitely warrants a check for tight valve on the 150 psi cylinder. If it starts you can use it as is, it will start poorly, grey smoke and have low power. Check your PMs!

 

[Dieseltech]

If it's a glow plug diesel the compression on a GOOD engine will be 400-450 PSI usually. Engines will run with lower compression but won't start well when cold though. Engine might have some pistons and ring damage if someone used ether before.

 

[mhb@ufe]

The compression spec is 427 + - 21 with a minimum of 284

 

[Bern]

I purchased a non-running Ford 1900 diesel 4x4 in the fall. I got it running and put a clutch in it. Once started runs good but smokes. I did a compression test on it yesterday and 2 cylinders have 250 psi and the other 150. I cannot find what the compression should actually be but I would assume at least 300psi. Anyone have actual numbers? It is the Shibaura diesel engine.
Keith

I'd question the accuracy of your readings if it runs as good as you say. With numbers that low it would have a hard time even starting.

 

[keith427]

I'd question the accuracy of your readings if it runs as good as you say. With numbers that low it would have a hard time even starting.

It has a hard time starting. It requires a lengthy amount of glow plug and a jump start from the truck sometimes.