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compression test = bad headgasket or rings?

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    compression test = bad headgasket or rings?

    What prompted the compression test in the first place was coolant boiling out of the reservoir after a 15 minute drive. Can't find any coolant leaks. Turbocharged engine, questionable tune, recently rebuilt engine (less than 500 miles).

    Numbers for the engine, mildly warm (firewall to radiator):
    135
    75
    125
    150
    150
    150

    Numbers for engine, mildly warm, with 1-2 tablespoons of oil:
    150
    125
    155
    150
    150
    150

    Plugs all look good, none are fouled/carboned. Haven't noticed any smoke from the exhaust.

    Now I know oil increasing the compression test numbers = bad rings. But I'm thinking maybe I put too much oil in the cylinders and the oil actually sealed a headgasket leak? But shouldn't headgasket leak mean two really low cylinders? Thoughts?

    '88 325is
    VP UT of Austin Autoholics
    BMWCCA 380364

    #2
    Yes, if compression increases byoiling the cylinders does generally indicate bad rings, but to be really sure get a leak down test done. With the piston at TDC a leak down test will tell you exactly whats leaking. Also note, that compression tests are only accurate if the engine is at operating temp, "mildly warm" may not be giving you accurate results.

    A head gasket leak is more likely to manifest itself as oil in your coolant, or you'll see that if you open the coolant resevoir cap, it will bubble continuously. The larger the leak, the bigger/more bubbles will appear.

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