Compression gauge faulty?

[junk240sx]

Hi guys, recently picked up an GSX and figured before I start doing anything, I should see if the engine is healthy. Followed the vfaq website link on doing compression test and picked up a gauge from autozone. The tool isn't the best and no way to screw it into the spark plug holes tightly...but I think it was still screwed in tight enough.

To give some info, the car has great power (feels like any other gsx/gst iv'e driven before) but does spit out some smoke occasionally out the tail pipe...but only after sitting a while. Don't even have a boost gauge yet to see if it's pushing stock psi but the car is completely stock so I assume it is.

Anyway, I get around to checking the compression and it's terrible. Around 60-70 for cyl 1 and 2. and around 70-80 for 3 and 4. I would think the engine shouldn't have any decent power with that low of compression, what do you think? Should I return this gauge and find another one? Or can it actually be right and even though I have good power, the engine is on it's way out...?

 

[2g 6 bolt swap]

Well i dont even think your car would run if the compression was that low in all the cylinders. I would try a different guage. Did you try do a wet compression test by pouring a cap full of oil down each cylinder. If the compression goes higher when doing that. The rings are bad.

 

[junk240sx]

Well i dont even think your car would run if the compression was that low in all the cylinders. I would try a different guage. Did you try do a wet compression test by pouring a cap full of oil down each cylinder. If the compression goes higher when doing that. The rings are bad.

Yes and the compression did go up 20-30 on all cylinders indicating worn rings. Just seems hard to believe they are so worn when the engine pulls so strong without even pushing it hard