[Vwdiesel] re-ring done, but no start

[LBaird119 at aol.com]

  Yes, a compression test would tell if a valve was bent and is leaking.  I 
managed to start my Jetta for the first time without setting the cam 
timing properly after setting the pump.  You could hear the valve clacking 
against the pistons.  Still didn't bend them.  I pulled the cover and checked 

clearances and all were still (luckily) what they'd just been set to.  :)
It sounds like your pump is timed correctly (not 180 off) because the 
dial gauge moves funny, compared to just backing up about a mm, if 
it's 180 out.  As I recall though the keyway is 180 off, from the casting 
marks on the pulley/gear between the TD and NA engines.
    We always loosened the blade screw headed bolt and pushed the 
cold start all the way to its stop before setting timing.  I think if you 
check, you'll see that the knob will still pull it full travel afterwards.
  Have you loosened an injector line and checked for spurt while 
cranking?
    Loren