Rebuild advice
 

Hi guys,

After checking the compression at two separate dealers just before my warranty expires, the results are mid 7's to a lowest of a 7.3 on the front rotor. The vehicle is having a small hot starting issue (extra two or three cranks), which the mechanic told me probably due to a combination of the fuel pump and low compression. Being that I am over the minimum compression I do not qualify for a reman. The omp is plugged and only burning at most a quart per 3000 miles. I am considering taking the engine apart to prevent any further damage and hopefully avoid a major overhaul. Its a 2006 MT daily driver with just over 100,000kms been using premix since I bought it.

Is it worth the risk in driving it until failure? Is there much life left in the engine? I have a rotary mechanic in town that is willing to help with the rebuild and plenty of room over the winter to do it. I would have time to clean, adjust, and upgrade parts as see fit.

I love driving the car and babying it defeats the purpose of owning it. Or just drive it until it craps out and order a new engine from RR or Mazmart?

Thanks in Advance.

What rpm are those compression scores at?

Personally, I think there is more risk in taking it apart than in continuing to drive it. 7.3 at 250 rpm at sea level is not the end of the world, and I don't think you should expect catastrophic failure. You could keep rolling at this compression for years. I'd say keep driving it as you have been, no need to baby it. If it gets worse and you have serious hot start or power loss issues, then get a rebuild from RR or Mazmart.

One quart per 3000 miles of regular driving seems not so bad either. Of course, it's good that you're premixing, but I wouldn't expect significantly more usage if you're not hitting trackdays and whatnot.

Is your ignition fresh?

Your assumption is right it was at 250 rpm, with year old plugs and a BHR ignition. I just ordered a SOHN adapter to help with the lubrication, i'll have to add a tad more premix to help ease the mind.

Those compression values are not spec for new, of course, but they are fine for a higher mile engine. A rebuild is not going to give you perfect compression numbers either. Run it until it gives you a reason that you must take it apart.

Honestly, I was thinking that they are a fair bit above average, given the mileage/age he stated. I'd be happy with that if it were me. :lol:

I'm relieved to hear that, looking at the specs for the max and minimum compression I thought I was flirting with the minimum line. Glad to hear she'll be pulling for a couple more years. I will have to come by and take a look at your shop next time i'm headed to nashville.