Worn camshaft lobes normally don't result in low compression readings.  It's more likely to be worn rings

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On Mar 27, 2013, at 2:23 PM, Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM> wrote:

> At that mileage things can be tired. The front cam lobes or bearings may be
> worn causing low compression readings on the front cylinders. The leak down
> test will indicate this and valve lift can be measured to confirm. At this
> point if it is a valve or ring problem you can go for cheap to get some time
> but consider doing a proper rebuild or a 2.1 upgrade.
> 
> Dennis
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
> Scott Chapman
> Sent: Wednesday, March 27, 2013 12:10 PM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Re: 85 Vanagon low compression in 2 cylinders. Suggestions?
> 
> It has ~185,000 miles on it.
> 
> On Wed, Mar 27, 2013 at 9:09 AM, Scott Chapman <scott@mischko.com> wrote:
>> Hi!
>> 
>> My '85 Westy has been having problems starting, more lately. I had it
>> towed to the repair shop here in San Diego and I'm told it has about
>> 40# compression in one cylinder and 70# in the opposite one. The other
>> two are much higher.
>> 
>> The spark plugs were in serious need of replacement and it will start
>> and run a bit better now.
>> 
>> I'm told it's $6000+ to get a good rebuilt put in.  If I keep driving
>> it the core charge goes up on a rebuilt.
>> 
>> In the future, that may be possible. Not right now.  The body and
>> interior are in nearly cherry condition and the rest of the mechanical
>> is VERY good.
>> 
>> I love my Westy and am not happy with the idea of parting with it.
>> 
>> Suggestions?
>> 
>> Scott