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Eric has a video on compression testing that you should check out.
The increased reading with the addition of oil suggests that this is a problem with the rings or the bore. I don’t think a valve problem would change by adding some oil to the cylinder. He can pull of the valve cover to inspect if something is up with the valve movement on cylinder 3.
A leak down test will provide more information how what is causing the low compression and should be done to properly diagnose.
I’m with you on doing the leak down next, the compression test is really just a start, if you suspect or find a problem the leak down is the next logical step. If he’s not willing to give it a try I’m not sure there is much we can do really. Keep us posted though.
Hopefully if he goes to an engine builder, the builder will do the proper tests before proceeding and if it’s bad news steers him to a junkyard motor. I know if the block is toast but the head is good and he finds an older engine (say mid 90s or so) he’d be able to swap heads as the 2000 model year had a slightly higher compression ratio than some of the older models, resulting in a few more horsepower and a couple extra lb-ft of torque. (These are woefully underpowered engines and need every ounce of power they can get). BTW, 2001 was the last year of the this Ford Lima engine (yes, Lima, Ohio) which is the same basic engine that came with the 74 Pinto!
Anyway, the way this guy diagnosed his problem could be a how-to in “how NOT to diagnose an engine stumbling problem”. Throwing $$$ parts at motor not very effective.
I’ll post back when he takes the next step in this saga.
Your forum buddy seems a little confused – one second he’s talking about money being an issue, then he says he’s going to speak with an engine builder.
Rebuilding to me is only worth it for high performance or if you really like the car and plan on keeping it forever, otherwise used is way cheaper.
I hope he did the compression test with a warm engine or his readings will be off. He really needs to diagnose it properly before ripping the engine apart.
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