318 Compression test=90-78-60-40
 

I am a college student with a 65 cuda with a 318, I recently ran a dry compression test with 90-78-60-40 as the results on one head. Has anyone had similar results? I bought the car with ivory colored sludge oil. The previous owner replaced the head gaskets without getting the heads surfaced. I assume the problem is a warped head. I am a broke college student who can't waste money machining/rebuilding/replacing without some prior knowledge. I plan on doing a wet compression test but I am assuming it's not a piston ring problem with the decreasing compression numbers.. What other problems could cause this? Thank you.

From the sounds of what I just read. It appears that an Overhaul would be in order. I would suggest that if you are running short on money, that you check with the collage your attending and see if there Automotive technology department might be interested in a class project for the rebuild.
I have done this in the past with good results on some projects with thin funding.
I think if you short cut it at this point, your just going to chase your tail.

Just my 2 cents
:)

ivory colored sludge oil. If it has been in the engine any length of time the bearings are shot !!!! Rebuild time !!!!!

That is usually water in the oil. Do a cooling system pressure test first.

Thanks for the replies!

You reinforced my doubt about the engine. I don't have the time to try different things, so I bought a good engine for $400. Thanks for the help!

Hope it runs good?....:)