mx5cartalk.com

Heya,

1st question: My current engine has compression test results between 189-195 for all 4 cylinders. Cylinder 3 however was slow to reach this, first couple of strokes were half the corresponding results for the other cylinders. I've read that this can be a sign of worn piston rings... However my engine stops smoking after a while.. so that doesnt really add up.. thoughts?

2nd question: i was looking at an import engine and the place reckon they tested it and found it 210psi for all 4 cylinders.. that seems very high.. could that be sign of an older engine? carbon buildup and what not?

Maybe I should stick with mine and get it looked at for maybe new rings and a head overhaul to fix possible leaking stem seals.

-Marty

189-195 is ok, but number 3 being slow is a problem. Good explanation of why smoking reduces by kosby in this: viewtopic.php?f=29&t=48652

According to xmx106 some report getting 215PSI in this:
viewtopic.php?f=29&t=46853

Need to weigh up the cost of getting yours fixed versus getting the import engine - how much do they want for the imported engine?

Thanks mate.

$1250... plus $100 or so shipping.

the idea was that this place has been doing it for 15+yrs and therefore they know a good engine when they see it (plus 6mth warranty).. but the 210 psi threw me a little tbh, when supposedly mazda reckons its 185 max.

So $1250 + shipping + removal of old eng & fitting of replacement (unless you DIY) = $2k+ versus what ever your old eng requirements are. If rebuild, then replacement eng is cheaper, but if yours doesn't need much work, & you can get a written quote for it & DIY what you can, then may be fix yours up. GL!