What am I in for?
 

I'm trying to set my expectations.

I'm pulling the 3.2 out of my '88 to do the guides. I'm wondering what's prudent to do while I'm in there, and what can wait. One Porsche shop suggested limiting the work to guides, and new lower studs. Another suggested guides, studs, and new rings (on existing jug and pistons). Both recommended not splitting the case.

So what's reasonable? Should I limit the work to the heads? Should I do the heads and new rings? Should I split the case, check everything, and do the bearings if necessary?

Here's the pertinent info I have at this point.

• Engine has 98,000 miles.
• Engine seems to run fine, except...
• Oil consumption is 1 qt/250 miles.
• I have a notable amount of "fluff" on the magnet oil drain plugs.
• Compression numbers (warm) are: 1) 180 2) 190 3) 180 4) 190 5)190 6)180.

Thoughts???

Did either of them base their recommendation on whether or not they thought it was blowing past the rings?

If not maybe that will be the only thing that will keep you from doing the rings too.

And unless have a reason why split the case?

Regards,

Rob:

Do a leakdown test as that tells you a LOT more than compression testing. Thats the best way to evaluate ring sealing and make the right call about ring replacement.

Based on those results, the kind of maintenance (oil changes) the car has received, and how long you intend to keep it, guides your decision on what to do.

I'm curious why a shop would recommend replacing rings without the leakdown? I'd assume not touch them if the leakdown showed good otherwise you risk even more work and another teardown if they don't seat properly.

You don't mention what your oil-pressure is, that is usually the indicator for me whether or not it's time to go into the bottom end "preventetively".

Replace the lower row of dilivar head studs (exhaust side) with steel. Not if they will break just when they will. And a regrind of the cams to a 964 profile:cool:

If it were me I'd do the studs and valve guides and then drive it another 100,000 miles. I would measure the pistons and rings just to see how much life they have left but I suspect they will be fine. Your shop should be able to inspect the rings for you before recommending new rings. I prefer to keep the old rings if they are within the wear limit so as to not take a chance on new rings not seating.

-Andy