Volvo Low Compression 1 Cylinder

[gregmercer]

I have a 1993 Volvo 230. I bought the boat as a project boat and knew it needed some work. I started it up for the first time today and it sounded pretty good. It is fresh water cooled and I had it hooked up to ears with the garden hose to cool it. <br /><br />After about 10 minutes of ideling I noticed it was running a little hot. My guage only read 175 so I flicked the guage (it was stuck) and it shot up to 250 real quick. I immediately shut off the engine and let it cool down for about an hour. I then tried to start it again but it wouldn't start. I pulled the plugs and did a compression test, the back 3 cylinders all tested 150psi and the front one tested 50psi. <br /><br />From what I know I am guessing it is a blown head gasket. <br /><br />What do you guys think? What do I do next to know excatly what is wrong? Thanks!<br /><br />Greg

 

[Kevin70]

Re: Volvo Low Compression 1 Cylinder

Put a spoonful of oil in the chamber (spark plug hole), Turn it over a few times to spread the oil around and put the comp gauge back on. If the pressure went up a little, it's bad piston rings. If there is no change, it's probably a blown head gasket or valve/valve seat problem.

 

[Mile-High Mariner]

Re: Volvo Low Compression 1 Cylinder

Shame, shame, greg - double-posting!