dragtap73

My xj in the last couple days started running horrible. It's an 84 with a 2.5L. Replaced coil, cap, rotor, plugs and wires with no change. Compression tested today and found that cylinders 2 and 3 only have about 35lbs compression. Tried a little oil in the hole to test for rings and still no change. Motor has been absolutely solid to this point. No valve noise, no smoke no power loss etc.... So I guess my question is could this be a valve problem or head gasket? Not sure what step to take next?

jacks_10chevy

any oil in the water? pull the valve cover and check the valves?

i meant water in the oil or vice versa

dragtap73

I found no water in oil or vise versa, pulled the valve cover off and very minimal moisture was visible, and valves seemed to be functioning?

jacks_10chevy

Low compression in one cylinder usually indicates a bad exhaust valve. Low compression in two adjacent cylinders typically means you have a bad head gasket. Low compression in all cylinders would tell you the rings and cylinders are worn and the engine needs to be overhauled.

dragtap73

Thin it's a pretty safe bet that I just have a head gasket starting to go, think I will tackle that tomorrow being a pretty cheap fix. Thanks for your help. I am new to jeeps, are there any special procedures that need to be followed or is it a pretty straight forward job?