Pulled the head and I cant see anything wrong with the valves. theres a lot of buildup from burning oil, but no cracks or chunks missing or anything. there is some discoloration, and some of the intakes have a lot of buildup on the face, but I expected that. #1 piston has ash built up in the dish and the others look similar. cylinder walls look smooth and not gouged or otherwise damaged, other than the ridge at the top, everything looks nominal. head gasket looked great.
Ill try to get pictures posted
so...I know now its not the head gasket, but I cant determine if I have a bad valve in the head or bad piston rings, although signs are strongly suggesting the rings are non-existent. I dont have access to an air compressor to try that method. if I had the ability to disassemble the head, I would pull the valves and check the seat. I have a cylinder head shop down the road that could take a look at it. they have done work for me in the past.
Now I think its time to try to pull the engine from the other truck. it had good compression before it sat, and its been sitting for about 5 or 6 years, without a head. thanks again everyone for your time.
Last edited by Noblesix; 06/14/16 09:22 PM.