x2 on the leak down test. Even if it is head gasket and/or valves a leak down test will help you to isolate it before you tear things apart. It would suck to do all that head work then find you also have bad rings.

 

if you don't have access to a leak down test you can use a regular compression gauge run a test the add a table spoon or two of oil to the cylinders if the compression jumps up; it rings if it doesn't its valves.

 

Generally true, but if you have both problems in the same cylinder it won't be as obvious. Or if you have a leak in to the cooling system. Even quality testers are relatively inexpensive when factored in to the overall cost of a cylinder head job.

 

whatever

 

The misfires are on 5 and 8. If you still have the plugs out, repeat the compression test and make sure you still get the same numbers, might have been a bad reading for any number of reasons. With misfires on cylinders that are on a single coil, ignition is where you should start.

 

Does that translate as "compression tests and leak down tests are of equal value", or as "you can never have more than one issue in a cylinder" or as "leak down testers are way too expensive"?

 

Well I got it home guys! Was a bit hairy since the brakes don't really work... but here it is. Already completed my first modification (notice stickers on overhead window). Also dissected ignition switch and 'modified' it so that it now turns all the way back to position '0' and I can remove key.

To do list: replace front windshield (cracked/leaking) and a-pillar covers
-Fix brakes, probably all new pads/rotors, lines and bleed.
-New coil pack and wires, (misfire feels like it is associated w/ coils)
-Hopefully not need to do HG
-Use for hauling misc. junk, mountain bikes, kayaks, off road, enjoy!

 

Oops here's one with the stickers

 

Red ones are the most troublesome.

 

HA! Thanks Chris