Sell, Fix, or buy lots of oil?

[Waspy]

Got the compression done today with a new tester:

C1: 11 bar/ 160psi
C2: 11 bar/ 160psi
C3: 13.8 bar/ 200psi
C4: 12 bar/ 174 psi

So something isn't right, but I don't know what? Does that suggest gasket problems or?

[gazareth]

could be a gasket leak between cyl 1 and 2. the head would have to come off whatever the cause. I would just try and find a decent 2nd hand engine with less miles. or take off head and get it redone. and at same time hone the bores and fit new rings and big end shells. don't even have to take engine out.

[Waspy]

Well I was thinking about getting the head redone, so when its off ill redo the gasket obviously. I would ideally avoid bottom end work if it doesnt absolutley need it...

[gazareth]

there is a digifant head on ebay for £40. why not buy that and get it rebuilt? then its just a case of swapping it over on a weekend. keeps you mobile while you get the head rebuilt.

[Diamond Hell]

Find a local engineering firm who will skim the head, pressure test it and fit new stem seals first.

Then get the head off and take it to them.

Get the block clean and look it over, then get the head back on with a new cambelt and head gasket.

All that shouldn't cost a lot more than £50.

If it's still using oil you have a knackered bottom end that you didn't spot.

Unfortunately there is no guarantee that a 2.0 bottom end from a scrapyard will be any better than what you have!

As previously, tell your insurance company if you rebuild with 2.0 as they have 2.0 CAST into the block - not something you can chisel off or change to 1.8!

They are only likely come after you with a thorough inspection if you hurt someone else/someone else's stuff - your car might be worth nothing but the damage you can do to other property or people could cost them seven figures.

[Waspy]

Just to clarify I was joking about taking a hammer and chisel to anything!

Not a bad idea buying an ebay special and getting it done. Do you think getting it gas flowed or anything while I'm at it is worth it?

Thanks for the advice guys

[Diamond Hell]

Not a bad idea buying an ebay special and getting it done. Do you think getting it gas flowed or anything while I'm at it is worth it?

Only bother doing it if you're sending it to a good engine builder, who has his own flowbench and can deliver before and after flow rates.  JNL Racing did my Crossflow head a few years back.

[gazareth]

Just to clarify I was joking about taking a hammer and chisel to anything!

Not a bad idea buying an ebay special and getting it done. Do you think getting it gas flowed or anything while I'm at it is worth it?

Thanks for the advice guys

it all depends how much you want to spend and how much extra power your after. that's why its good to have a spare head to rebuild at your leisure while you still have car on the road.