190E 2.3-16V compression test
 

im in the market to purchase another 16V with 120K miles. what is the average dry and wet compression for this car with this mileage. the car is a 1987.
i guess if the engine is still good it is a good buy for 3K.

thanks.

It's hard to give a certain figure, but i would expect around 145 to 165 psi, the main thing is that they are even, also when you remove plugs for comp test look for any deposits on electrode, if eng is not burning oil and tuned correctly plugs should be fairly clean and grayish in appearance. You can also see if it is burning oil by revving engine and looking for blue smoke from tail pipe. If the car has been well maintained with reg oil changes then it should be good for another 120,000 miles. :)

Mono-

You might want to check for the updated tensioner. Add 3k for new chain, rails, sprockets, labor in a worst case scenario.

cheers,
dan r

"You might want to check for the updated tensioner. Add 3k for new chain, rails, sprockets, labor in a worst case scenario"

Dan,

Did you get yours running yet?

Mon,

If I recall, the last time I checked, mine were between in the 150-165psi range at 130k miles. The motors are fairly stout and should generall,y go over 200k with care. As previously stated, make sure the maintenance has been routinely performed otherwise you could spend a small fortune getting it up to spec.

Tinker

Tinker,

I did! Check out http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/113741-190e-16v-timing-chain-cover-guide.html#post804855 to see the timing chain cover guide. Go ahead an post any changes.

Mon,

I took another look at my reply-it might have been a bit harsh. I would say 3k is an excellent price to pay for a 16v that is in decent shape-just be aware of the achiles-chain on these cars.

dan

thank you
 

thank you very much for the help.