Which statement regarding valve timing and manifold vacuum is correct?

In understanding the relationship between valve timing and manifold vacuum, it is essential to consider how valve timing affects engine performance and the air-fuel mixture relationship.

Correctly interpreting the dynamics of engine operation reveals that retarded valve timing generally leads to decreased cylinder compression readings rather than high ones. When the intake valves open late, the engine has less time to draw in air, which can reduce the cylinder pressure and result in a lower compression reading.

Regarding the air-fuel mixture, a leaner mixture indeed can lead to different manifold vacuum readings. However, a lean air-fuel mixture will not inherently cause a high intake manifold vacuum reading. Instead, a higher manifold vacuum is typically associated with a richer mixture under certain conditions, as the engine may pull a greater volume of air through the intake at lower throttle openings when there is more fuel.

Both statements presented do not accurately reflect the principles of valve timing and air-fuel mixture dynamics. This understanding clarifies why the option indicating that neither of the statements is correct aligns with the principles of engine mechanics.