[Fot] Race Engine Refreshing Frequency - compression results

[fubog1]

 Every engine will have a different service life, depending on state of development, tune, rpm range, general maintenance, etc.A competitive full-tilt National spec engine will likely get a freshen-up every weekend, a mild-tune/low rev Vintage engine can last seasons w/regular maintenance.Leakdown, oil filter inspection, valve lash check, oil pressure & temp readings, & plug check will give an idea of the engines health.Next step is a bearing check; anything beyond that involves full teardown & hands-on inspection.Also set valve lash prior to compression test, & realize that the compression test is of limited value; a leaking cylinder can still pump up pretty good...HTH
Glen Efinger
.

    On Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 05:02:44 PM EDT, James Trudeau via Fot <fot at autox.team.net> wrote:  
 
 I finished a 9 weekend race/school/track day season that started in April and finished at Thompson in October with no obvious performance problems. Total of 38 engine hours including warmup, grid, race, cool down. 
Did a dry compression test today:   
   - 210
   - 225
   - 195
   - 200

I get some oil blow by at the valve cover cap and maybe some drips from lower end seals (not sure if oil starts at valve cover). 
I’m sure I’ll hear a suggestion to do a leak down test and / or wet compression. 
Oil filter forensics?
In the absence of obvious issues, how much of a tear down is warranted? 
Jim

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