You need to do a leak down test to determine if there is a leakage problem
at the rings or valves. If the leakage is consistent on all 4 than the
front-back difference indicates a worn camshaft. It can still run for a
good long time like that.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
pickle vanagon
Sent: Thursday, April 24, 2008 11:07 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Compression Numbers (in advance of head job)

I'm planning on starting my head job tomorrow.

I did a compression test tonight to get an idea of where I'm at in terms
of
engine wear.  As the cylinders are physically laid out in front of you
when
you're standing behind the engine, I have:
150 150
170 170

give or take a few psi.  This is an '83 1.9l engine with a little under
100,000 miles.  I seem to get pretty good mileage (19mpg combination
around
town, light highway.)

Is this front back difference a bit weird?  I was wondering if the list
might have some opinions one specific things I should be looking for with
these numbers when I pull the heads.  (The heads are just coming off
because
of a slow gasket leak).

Thanks very much for any advice,
Wes

'83 1.9l. westy