Decision time

[Huw Powell]

>> So, the misaligned cams are causing low compression?  Although I am unfamiliar 
>> with the v6, I would propose the following:
>> --Pull the plugs and inspect the piston tops with one of those flexible 
>> inspection scopes.  This will confirm or not the "smashed valves."
>> --Reset the timing on the cams and remeasure compression.
>> --If the compression is "acceptable", fill the crankcase, replace the oil 
>> filter, and try to start the car.
>>
>> Perhaps you and the mechanic already performed steps 1 and 2?
> 
> Nope. I was told that if the cams were off, there is so little
> clearance for the valves that they'd go squish boom. 
> 
> An inspection scope would be nice, but I don't think it will 
> help. Is it worth $300 to find out?

Surely your mechanic has access to one?  They should...

> I was also told the stress the induced the pully/crank key
> to (potentially) shear (all this is still speculation), would take
> its toll on other parts.

I think there's too much speculation going on, and agree with M. 
Pinkowish' recommendation.

Actually *seeing* dents in pistons or bits of valve in the combustion 
chamber would makes things clear.  As would *seeing* a sheared key.

I realize it will cost money to set the cam timing properly to do the 
test - how much?

Judging by your commute, I'd venture to guess that you don't really have 
much spare time to work on this yourself?

(PS, I would imagine the first thing the tech who buys it for 1000 would 
do is reset the cam timing and add oil to see if it runs... after 
checking the combustion chambers and keyways!)

-- 
Huw Powell

http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi

http://www.humanthoughts.org/