95 e320 will not start after head gasket replacement.

[JBS]

I just replaced the head gasket on my 1995 E320. The old gasket failed after 255,000 miles and pressurized the cooling system. I did not notice until there was a loss of power and pinging. The engine then shut off.

I had he head resurfaced.

Since replacing the gasket the car will not start. It spins normally and speeds up slightly when given gas during the cranking process but will not start.

I removed the valve cover and double-checked the timing which appeared correct. (Done at TDC with camshaft dowel holes aligned with top of head surface and intake cam gear rotated clockwise.)

I tested the spark by removing the #1 spark plug and grounding it while cranking. There is spark.

I do not smell fuel as you would expect from flooding after prolonged cranking.

I will perform a compression test tonight and post the results.

Any help would be most appreciated!