Re: when do you need to get new rings installed?
at what compression level are new rings suggested? i have a 1991 90hp that has 115# in all 3 cylinders. is it better to have them replaced before it gets too low?
What the other fellows say is right on. If it aint broke dont fix it BUT. Try tilting your motor up, removing your sparking plugs, (Thats what the British call them) and injecting about 10ml of Marvel Mystery Oil into the cylinders, and let it soak for a few days. I have been using that stuff for more years than you want to know, and it is especially good on 2 cycle engines for freeing rings, removing sludge and top end residue etc. You can add it to your fuel too to keep things moving in the fuel system. WIth a rag over the plug wells turn the motor over a few times with the starter to blow clear the MMO, put in the plugs and run her for a while. It will smoke a bit, of course. It will clear up. Then check your compression again, and see what you have. If its the same, you just have some wear, no sweat. If it increases, all about the same, you freed up your stuck rings. Dont rush it, let it set for a few days.
No, I do not work for MMO
Another tip: Harbor freight has a spark plug cleaner that hooks up to your air compressor that really works pretty darn well. I remember when all the Gas Stations (Which used to all be garages too) had sand blasters like this where you could go there, say hello to the owner and sand blast your plugs for free. Now we throw them in the land fill. Back then we had a great guy that owned the station on the corner that patched all the kids bicycle tubes with a hot patch for free. Thats the way the US used to be. Oh and air for your tires was free, too. And an ice cold coke was a nickle.
Progress my AXE.
