Off topic, but I used to do that too. Had several Nash Metropolitans through the years. I was changing valve seals once, put 140 psi air to a cylinder to hold up the valves, forgot the car was in gear, and damned near got pinned against a workbench when it jumped forward.
This is an interesting thread. Seems to me that the engine should be just fine at this mileage. I think I'd find a reliable mechanic.
