How do you know when...

[Anonymous]

Hi Everyone, I'm still new around here but i could use some advice. I have stock 65 200 with all the original parts and no mods. I want to make this engine reliable, efficient and somewhat powerful. But the big question is How Do I Know If my engine needs a rebuild or other serious work. The engine runs good but has left me stranded due to starter/carb troubles but they have been remedied, so far anyway. The transmission seems a little sluggish but I'm unsure as to whether or not to change the fluid. I have money saved up enough I just could use a little guidance on how to begin. Any suggestions at all would be cool. Thanks.
JC 8)

 

[xctasy]

Talk to a mechanic, and have him perform a compressions check. If they show, say, 150 psi +/- 20 psi, then its a goodie.

Don't worry if it is below 150 psi, or shows lots of variance. Most mechanics can do a check by adding oil to see if its the rings or valves which are at fault.

Oil out of the exhast in the rearview mirror on the bottom of hills is a bad sign, but in 2 out of 10 cases, it can be fixed with new oil seals.

Then do a static leakdown test at an auto shop. If it retains 85% of the initial pressure overnight in each cylinder, then its a pearler!

Just remember, any engine rework is expensive, and its often best to spend 6 to 12 months monitoring a good engine. You can go for a rebuild later when the wicked plans develope!

 

[Lazy JW]

What Execute says describes a very good engine. I will add that as long as it starts good, doesn't use too much oil (only you can decide how much that is) doesn't make nasty knocking noises, and all of the cylinders are above 100 lbs, it will probably run a long time yet. It may not be a candidate for hot rodding though.
Joe