1800 engine compression

[jlw35]

Just did a compression test after noticing excessive bluish smoke from exhaust.

#1 129
#2 80
#3 125
#4 120

So I get that #2 is a problem, do the other numbers seem reasonable?
Just finished with a new head gasket, no leaks during warm-up. I had a post under "crankshaft help" in this forum which related to a nut that was swallowed through the carb and ended up lodged by the #2 exhaust valve (valve did not look damaged, but...).

Suggested next step?
My hope is that someone will say to adjust the valves, doubt I will hear that so I'm open.

Thanks
Jeff

[djape1977]

well, for starters, check valve clearances

[So Cal Mark]

did you check to see if that valve was sealing? You really need to do a leakdown test to determine if the rings are the problem

[jlw35]

Mark,

When I had the head off a week ago, I poured some fuel on top of each cylinder. That test (if you can call it accurate) was good I thought. The fuel sat on top of the cylinder for at least :10 minutes.

My attempt at a test on the valves while the head was off was done awkwardly at best, so I can't say if it was successful or not.

Is it possible to do a leakdown test of the valves with the head on the engine by removing the cam cover gaskets? If so, would I use fuel for the test and what sort of parameters would you expect.

Thanks to all
Jeff

[So Cal Mark]

turn the head upside down, turn the cams so the valves are closed and fill the combustion chamber with solvent

[fiatfactory]

.

[jlw35]

Ok, appreciate all the advice.

Work to do this week I suppose.

Anyone know of a good machine shop in the St. Louis, MO area?

Jeff