WCM S2K engine questions

[NecronomiconJules]

Hi,

 

I am uncomfortably close to pulling the trigger on a Brian Anderson-built WCM S2K. The engine is a F22C (2.2) unit, one of the "train-wreck" series bought new by WCM.

 

Upon acquiring it 2.5 years/1,800 miles ago, the current owner did a compression and leakdown test that returned, respectively:

- 240 PSI even

- 2.5% to 5%

I have seen the paperwork.

 

The PPI I ordered yesterday yielded:

- 230 PSI even

- 6% even

The engine now has 4k miles all told. According to the PPI shop it idles normally, doesn't smoke/leak, is bone dry and operates normally.

 

With zero mechanical experience, I would appreciate comments/thoughts on whether the slight loss is acceptable/can be attributed e.g. to instrument calibration/should raise questions/constitutes a red flag.

 

Thanks.

Eric

[Off Road SHO]

Eric,

 

Nothing wrong with those numbers at all, and like you stated could be attributed to various causes that are not related to your engine's health.

 

Accurate compression tests should only be done on engines that have been warmed up, with all the spark plugs removed and the throttle body(ies) wide open.

 

With that high of compression, I believe you should be running premium fuel.

 

Tom

[powderbrake]

Eric,

 

With that high of compression, I believe you should be running premium fuel.

 

Tom

 

I believe the compression ratio is around 13:1, and yes it does require premium fuel.

 

If you acquire the S2k, I am sure you will be happy with the performance, and if there is anything you need to know , there are plenty of Ultralite members on this forum for help.

 

Since I assembled my kit in 2005, I took the plugs out when I got the engine, (with about 1500 miles on it), they looked good, so I put them back in, and it has required ZERO engine maintenance except oil and filter changes. Those Honda engines are bulletproof.

Edited January 2, 2015 by powderbrake

[WestTexasS2K]

I would buy that car in a second. If the engine is hurt it will be very obvious, rattle, smoke or low compression in number 4 cylinder. The Honda is really good engine. It can be damaged but rarely in stock form unless it has an aftermarket computer with a bad tune. The only other time I have seen a damaged engine is from power adder or oil starvation. Which would be obvious in the testing that was done. Buy it and enjoy.

[NecronomiconJules]

Thank you all - that answers my questions.

 

Test drive is tomorrow - there's a chance I'll be certified for the loose screw club. I'll let you know.

 

Eric