ecuxc

Hi All,

I have been experiencing the same problems many come across with having to add between a half quart to a quart between oil changes. Lately though I have had the low oil light come on between changes (I change my oil approximately every 2000 miles). I believe this is because I have been hitting it fairly hard over the summer but have also noticed a thick brown cloud in my rear view mirror when I am above 4K revs.

The other day I noticed my SES light flash multiple times and read the code, which was cylinder number 4 misfiring. I pulled all plugs and each appeared to be in typical condition, probably running a bit hot, a little white on the tips but nothing abnormal. Of course the plug from cylinder 4 had a great amount of black dried oil coating the entire plug and confirmed the misfires.

Is anyone able to help me determine if I am experiencing a ring or valve problem? Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

BaddBird

iTrader: (6)

Check compression to see if you have a weak set of rings.

ecuxc

I ran a compression test and found that I have 180 all around except for cylinder 4, which has 60. Have not removed the heads. In most peoples experience, does this mean bad rings or a bad head? My mechanic is telling me that I will need heads.

please help.

BigBirdLS1

The only way you will need heads is if you messed up the valvetrain on that cylinder ie broke valve pushrod or spring. which then could have hit the head. Your problem don't sound like a valvetrain issue tho.you most likely have a bad piston/ring doesn't = new heads

ecuxc

Thanks for the info. That is what I am leaning towards. The mechanic is stating this because they are aluminum heads.

99RTA

iTrader: (-1)

before you take it apart do a leak down test and you will know where the trouble is.

94 s dime

iTrader: (10)

same problem but only on cyl 5.. and the rings were completely toast.. ringland was fubar'd

BaddBird

iTrader: (6)

you can also do a wet compression test with oil and if the compression comes up your rings are toast. If it does not then you have a valvetrain or head issue.