Low compression

Tiny
GREEN DEVIL
  • MEMBER
  • 1993 MAZDA 3
  • 1.8L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 190,000 MILES
1-3-5 cylinders have between 97-100 psi of compression while 2-4-6 have 60 psi of compression. Car has a very rough idle and no power.
Wednesday, October 10th, 2018 AT 10:57 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,269 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros. Com.

Honestly, I am surprised it is still running. That compression is very low (even the highest reading). Compression pressure should be 156 - 193 psi. Maximum variation between cylinders should not exceed 28 psi.

With that being said, either the rings are worn, there are leaking valves, or the timing belt is far enough off to cause an issue. Has the timing belt ever been replaced? As far as the compression test, did you try a wet test? Basically, you place about a table spoon full of oil in the cylinder to be tested. If there is a significant increase in pressure, the rings are worn. If there is not, then it is a valve issue. Also, I do not suspect a blown head gasket since all cylinders are low.

Try the wet compression test. Here are the directions for testing compression specific to your vehicle. You will note that number 7 starts the directions for a wet test. Try this and let me know what you find.

1. Start and warm engine to normal operating temperature.
2. Turn engine Off and allow exhaust manifold approximately ten minutes to cool.
3. Remove all spark plugs, then disconnect primary wire from ignition coil.
4. Connect a compression gauge to No. 1 spark plug hole.
5. Fully depress accelerator pedal and crank engine, record maximum gauge reading.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for each cylinder. Compression pressure should be 156 - 193 psi. Maximum variation between cylinders should not exceed 28 psi.
7. If compression in one or more of the cylinders is low, pour a small amount of engine oil into cylinder and recheck compression. Check results as follows:
a. If compression increases, piston, piston rings, or cylinder wall may be worn.
B. If compression stays low, valve may be stuck or improperly seated.
C. If compression in adjacent cylinders stays low, cylinder head gasket may be defective or cylinder head distorted.

8. Connect ignition coil, then apply suitable anti-seize compound to spark plug threads and install plugs. Torque plugs to 12 - 17 ft. Lb.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Wednesday, October 10th, 2018 AT 7:03 PM

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