I've probably had close to 2-3 gallons of fuel through it... running 20% Blue Thunder... *thinks to self*... I do feel resistance on the compresion stroke, I dont think i've ever had it flame out actually... (except for the one time i accidentally COMPLETLEY submerged the car and it got hydro locked). I dont know what you mean by the thump? It just sounds bogged down almost... doesn't have the same crisp sound.. takes forever to start first time, but once it has been running and warmed up i can get it restarted piece of cake. Also, if the piston sleeve is "stuck" in the engine, how do you reccomend getting it out without scratching/damaging it? Or does this involved taking out the crank and pushing from the bottom?

thanks for the help guys... keep it coming!