I finally got around to testing the compression and now i feel inadequate. I tested with whatever compression gauge they sell at Sears. I think the readings should be alot higher. The engine was rebuilt by PO and I've put a good 18k miles on it. I don't know what the total since rebuild but i doubt it's more than 40K.

a) b18 fitted with b20 pistons, shaved b20f head
b) 1964
c) 135psi, 135psi, 132psi, 130psi

Here's how she's behaving:

I don't see any smoke during hard acceleration. If i wait to shift at high RPM, when the throttle slams shut, a nice puff of smoke out the back. If i keep a toe on the accelerator while clutching, i don't see it.

If i decelerate in gear for any length of time i start seeing a faint smoke screen. When i get back on it it exhales a cloud of smoke like a 4ft bong rip.

Oil blows out the dipstick, as well as out the oil cap.

I do have the EGR hooked up.

I have to add oil far too often. Sorry environment.

I get headaches if i don't keep the window down.

So, do i need new rings?

curtis m. white