TommoSilv

Evening all

Since buying my S I have had a CEL for random misfires in all cylinders, and after trying injectors and valve clearances to no avail did a compression test.

The first cylinder came up at 150 psi, with the others around about 230 so there is obviously a problem there. I'm due a leakdown test to give more of an idea but whatever it is won't be cheap I am guessing.

What would be the best course of action? Can you focus on just the cylinder in question or would you need to fully rebuild the head? Would a head swap and new headgasket be an easier and cheaper solution?

Sorry for all the questions just trying to work out what to do here as it has come at a bad time really, I am tempted to cut my losses but cant imagine it'd be worth much to break with a dodgy engine.

Cheers, Tom

richmc

Not likely to be the head, probably a worn bore. Likely to need a new block/engine as you wont be able to get it lined. Sorry.

MIP

Having said that, I did see some one link to this once:

http://www.poeton.co.uk/w1/nickel-si...te-coating.htm


Maybe could be applied here (if it is a worn bore).

garylythgoe

What makes you think it's the head?

Sounds like the easiest fix, is putting a good engine in the car complete.

Hope you get it fixed chap.

BenRNBP

There was someone after an engine with a sound bottom for some experimental darton sleeving I belive, so you might get slightly more than scrap for it

Having said that I'd keep investigating the source (like you are with the leakdown test, squirting oil into the cylinder, etc ) of the compression problem. Hope it ends up not being a new engine for you.

lifecrisis

After more checks (leak-down test etc.) the next investigation must be getting the head off.

Could be one of several faults, valves, gaskets, etc....
I would suggest eliminating the obvious before 'investing' in another engine.

If the bore is indeed Sh*gged, then all you've lost is your time removing the head, which if in good nick could be sold on.(?)

Hoping for the best for you, but probably expecting the worst.

sound_wave

I'd go looking at replacing seals etc before going down the replacement block route. Maybe even source a second hand piston and try that?

BenRNBP

It's not a Drive By Wire year is it ? https://www.s2ki.com/s2000/topic/106...ners-dbw-cars/

TommoSilv

Its a 99 model.

I'm only thinking its the head due to the stories of bent valves, have not heard so much about bore problems but that's not to say it isn't the problem for me.

Leakdown will hopefully give me an idea of where to look, may as well take the head off anyway as its not going to get any better.

sound_wave

The bores are Fibre Reinforced Metal (FRM) and are known to be extremely hard. Chances are it'll be something like a seal or a valve.

Let us know what you find!