Bad luck? Definitely. Unfortunate purchase? Maybe. The plain facts are that this car DID NOT display any of the reported problems/symptoms 4 weeks ago(or in the few months leading up to it's sale). I have a problem accepting a drop of 30psi in one cylinder over a period of 2-3 weeks(in a car that is not drivable). The car had little to no use during the past 18 months(due to the previous owners illness)but on the couple of exceptions, it ran strongly and without issue. Make of that, what you will.
Assumptions are easy to make one way or another I suppose regardless if it was an unfortunate purchase or bad luck I actually witnessed this compression test being done and the readings were done two twice to confirm. I can either replaced the engine, rebuild or part it out - I just have to decide which one I want to do. IB - did Zcar91 have any plans for that engine he had haha.. Anyway, will keep you in the loop with what I do - I'm trying to source a few options as we speak. Cheers guys, Sean
Sean, If you trust the compression readings you originally posted up, then there is a huge question mark about how No.6 has deteriorated so much since that earlier reading(particularly as you seem convinced that the more recent reading is accurate). You should definitely remove the offending cylinder head so that you can determine whether the low compression is caused by burnt(or bent)valves, blown Head Gasket or Piston/Ring/Cylinder bore damage. If it's the former, then you're laughing(and will be back in business quickly and relatively cheaply). If it's the latter(or a combination of the other things mentioned)you can then make a valued assessment of how to proceed. Hope for the best(but be prepared for the worst). Best of luck(I have my fingers crossed for you).:zlove::zlove:
I see what you're getting at and I've already asked the heads to be pulled, unfortunately I'm working so much I can't do it myself. The second mechanic I took it to and did the readings with has been recommended to me by many ACT zedders so I do have faith in him over the cowboys at the other joint. Will spend the day hopefully with the car soon and see what's going on again... BTW guys, cheers for the help, its much appreciated Sean
Do not pull the heads until you determine where the cylinder pressure is going, once it is apart and it looks ok you will have no idea what is wrong. A leak down test is the very next thing you should do before putting a spanner to anything.
Rob from Endurance Automotive - he's been absolutely nothing but a legend. Great guy to work with and he's not your usual mechanic. He's been very upfront with me so far and knows his way around Z's from what I've seen Sean
