So I decided not to do the TDC method and do the air compressor trick. I attached the air hose and started pumping up the cylinder and all I hear is air leaking in the motor somewhere. It's losing about 20 psi every few minutes. What the hell could be wrong? The engine only has 49K on it so nothing should be worn out. This is driving me nuts, I can't figure out why this thing won't hold pressure.

This happens on all cylinders.

 

ring gap. its never a perfect seal and the air line that screws into the head will leak also.

 

The air is leaking faster than I can change a spring, unless I just keep the compressor on, would that be wise?

 

I think I answered my own question after some deep digging.
https://ls1tech.com/forums/showthrea...r+air+cylinder
For anyone else that may encounter this.

 

Yeah, definitely leave it connected, air will always leak slowly past the valves and rings, its normal. But I prefer the TDC method anyway. Much easier.

 

I went back to the TDC method, something about the air leaking wasn't trustworthy to me.