3.2 engine COLD compression numbers
 

I know that consistency in compression readings is more important than absolute number.

Less than 15% difference between the highest and lowest reading is considered acceptable ... correct?

But just for discussion purposes, what should the ballpark compression readings be for a 1986 3.2 engine ... cold?

I looking into purchasing a used 3.2 engine that currently has no intake, so only cold compression readings can be obtained.

Thanks

Eddie

Is the engine in or out of the car?

In the car, with oil lines still connected, full of oil I'd want to see 160 PSI or better.
Out of the car, how do you crank the motor and still get oil thru the motor?

I would do a leakdown test if the motor was out. You don't need to crank the motor with a starter to do a leakdown.

I'd look for less than 10%, better less than 6%.

If the motor has been sitting for a long time, I'd spray a little WD-40 into each sparkplug hole before any test.

I had an '86 3.2 with mileage in the high 80s. It cranked 175psi cold with a pound or two of variation across all cylinders. Leakdown was 10%.