I removed the valve cover and adjusted valves to Cat spec. 1, 2, and 3 didn't need much adjustment. 4, 5, and 6 needed a little bit. Here is a video I took of it running afterwards. It is still backfiring\popping. Please let me know if you can't download and view the video and I will try to post it a different way.

www.icloud.com/attachment/?u=https%3A%2F...2177.MOV&sz=92759245

Another interesting day messing around with this 977H. Per Bob's instruction, I took off the fuel line and hit cylinder 3 with some compressed air while both of its valves were closed. As seen in the video below, I heard air and saw old oil bubbling from where the exhaust manifold meets the head. Also, as seen in the pictures below, I noticed that the exhaust manifold was attached to the head with bolts. The manual calls for studs here, not bolts. Some of the bolts have several washers stacked up. I'm going to go ahead and order the correct studs. nuts, and some new gaskets. Interestingly, the exhaust manifold seems to be almost new.

www.icloud.com/attachment/?u=https%3A%2F...2193.MOV&sz=67194272

 

The picture where air looks like it’s coming out of the head bolts, I believe air is hitting the manifold side just making it look like it is. Try making a better connection so you don’t have any leaks.

Try the air trick after you take off the manifold
Bob.

OK, today, with both #3 valves closed, I tried to shoot air into the glow plug hole and I didn't hear any escaping through the exhaust. Then, I took off the exhaust manifold and shot some brake parts cleaner into the #3 valve, and let it pool up. The brake parts cleaner did not leak down. So, it appears that the valves are making a good tight connection. The lighting is bad but I took the following video:

www.icloud.com/attachment/?u=https%3A%2F...2213.MOV&sz=41013412

clayton wrote:

The picture where air looks like it’s coming out of the head bolts, I believe air is hitting the manifold side just making it look like it is. Try making a better connection so you don’t have any leaks.

I think you are right. I tried again today and got a more solid connection with the rubber tip on my air. I didn't hear any air coming out of the exhaust on #3

I found a diesel shop that worked on mechanical fuel pumps in my area. Taylor Diesel in Nashville, TN. I'm going to pull the pump and bring it to them to look over. I will report back when I know more.