Need help ?

quote >> It averaged around " 60 " between the 8 plug holes .
imo >>> not enough compression to lite the candles !

you say it has solid lifters a 273 had adjustable rockers. could be valve adjustment way off holding the valves open result > no compression
I adjusted the lash not to long ago , 1st time since rebuilding , but the engine has been running fine . .013" intake and .020" exhaust .