3rd & 4th Generation (1992–1996 & 1997–2001)Toyota Camry Discussion for years: 1992-1996 & 1997-2001
Topics of discussion range from fuel economy, safety, modifications, performance all involving America's favorite family car, the Toyota Camry.
I did a compression test this afternoon. The results below are the readings after about 6-7 cranks. For all cylinders, the 1st crank was about 70psi, and then gradually creeped up crank-by-crank until reaching the number below. As many of you probably know, the acceptable range listed in factory manual for this engine is 142-178psi.
Initial test:
Cylinder #1: 145psi
Cylinder #2: 145
Cylinder #3: 145
Cylinder #4: 140
(I did this about 2 years ago, all cylinders were approx 155)
After adding a bit of oil through the spark plug hole:
I think I can assume my piston rings are shot? Should I also do a leak down test? I'm trying to figure out as much as possible about what's going on inside my engine, since I'm contemplating an overhaul in the near future.
Why do you assume you have bad rings? They're all within 5 psi of each other. These numbers are actually pretty good.
I'm not sure what the culprit is. My compression readings have gradually dipped over the years, so something has to be causing that. I'm assuming the gradual decline will continue, putting me below spec in the relatively near future. I guess I'd like to fix the problem before I get there. Also, I was skimming through he pamphlet that came with my compression tester and it says "..after adding oil to the cylinder...if compression readings increase, worn, broken, or poorly seated piston rings are indicated."
My test results were much higher than (carboned up engine ) that when I did the compression test last summer. Yours seem acceptable. Why fix something thats not broken? Do you see any performance loss? Any issues with the car lately?
__________________ 1995 Camry DX L4 178,6XX miles and counting each mile.... acquired 05/25/2007 at 129K miles
2004 Mazda6 I4 5-Speed Manual 115,500 miles acquired 01/21/2011 at 109,XXX miles
anything above 142psi is driveable so I wouldn't worry yet. yes according to compression gauge instructions (adding oil, etc.) you may have worn out piston rings, because compression get a lot better with added oil ... but I would leave it alone for now and re-check after a year or so ... unless you want to speed up the process and do an engine overhaul now anyways.
as noted above, worst thing that may happen soon is engine starts burning a little oil probably.
there is no upper limit for compression, 178psi is optimal, however dirty engines (like mine used to be) will be reading like 190-210psi compression
as per MPG, I would rather do other things like minor (or major) tune up items first instead of rebuilding (a working) engine.
what motor oil are you using?
__________________ '02 Solara SLE V6 1MZ-FE/A541E Coupe .: Denso/NGK : Akebono SP : Philips 9011 HIR (low+high) : Toshiba HIR2 9012 (fogs) : Magnefine :. @ 131k
'00 Solara SE 5S-FE/A140E Coupe .: NGK : Hawk HPS : Philips XP : RCEng : Magnefine :. @ 82k
4SALE: connectors for Camry Headlight Wiring Harness and ECU
I'm not sure what the culprit is. My compression readings have gradually dipped over the years, so something has to be causing that.
Do you think 247,000 miles has anything to do with it? Posters that have said this is no big deal are correct and as stated if the engine is not giving you any great issues like excessive oil burning or lost power just drive it.
__________________
1995 Camry Wagon LE. 2.2 4cyl, 5S-FE, Auto, 187K
Well certainly parts wear with mileage, but that's my whole point. I'm trying to figure out which parts exactly are causing my compression to gradually decline. My readings are just barely within spec, and actually cylinder 4 is already out of range. I'm using the old motto 'An ounce of prevention is worth ten pounds of cure.' I want to solve a problem before it becomes one. If I sit back and do nothing, and "just drive it" I will start a thread a year from now saying that my compression is way below spec. But I figure, why let it get to that point?
Over the past several years I have noticed a gradual loss of power and gas mileage. The engine also runs a lot more roughly than it used to. This is with regular tune-ups and maintenance.
To be honest, I'm kind of looking for a reason to overhaul. I've always wanted to dismantle this thing and return it to assembly line spec, I am going to have several weeks of free time this spring before I start my new job in June, and I wouldn't mind driving this sucker for another 250,000!!!
Thank you to everyone who has replied, I do appreciate your input. I like having people other than my girlfriend trying to talk some sense into me!
Well certainly parts wear with mileage, but that's my whole point. I'm trying to figure out which parts exactly are causing my compression to gradually decline. My readings are just barely within spec, and actually cylinder 4 is already out of range. I'm using the old motto 'An ounce of prevention is worth ten pounds of cure.' I want to solve a problem before it becomes one. If I sit back and do nothing, and "just drive it" I will start a thread a year from now saying that my compression is way below spec. But I figure, why let it get to that point?
Over the past several years I have noticed a gradual loss of power and gas mileage. The engine also runs a lot more roughly than it used to. This is with regular tune-ups and maintenance.
To be honest, I'm kind of looking for a reason to overhaul. I've always wanted to dismantle this thing and return it to assembly line spec, I am going to have several weeks of free time this spring before I start my new job in June, and I wouldn't mind driving this sucker for another 250,000!!!
Thank you to everyone who has replied, I do appreciate your input. I like having people other than my girlfriend trying to talk some sense into me!
If you really want to then sure pull the engine. New gaskets, rings and bearings everywhere will cost around 300$ + timing belt components. But with 250k its a lot of work, unless your 100% sure your transmission and body is in good shape.
Start running 10w40, itll slow down the compression loss. If its not enough step it up to something a bit thicker. If your running 5w30 right now that's your biggest issue.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
ToyotaNation.com is an independent Toyota/Lexus enthusiast website. ToyotaNation.com is not sponsored by or in any way affiliated with Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. The Toyota, Lexus and Scion names and logos are trademarks owned by Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
95 Camry
AUTO to MANUAL Swap Guide (3rd Gen) - 
) that when I did the compression test last summer. Yours seem acceptable. Why fix something thats not broken? Do you see any performance loss? Any issues with the car lately?
acquired 05/25/2007 at 129K miles
I4 5-Speed Manual 115,500 miles acquired 01/21/2011 at 109,XXX miles
Linear Mode
