compression v200 and sloppy pistons

[hobbymad]

Hi guys i have a v200 1988 carb model and the comps are all 126-129psi very even on all 6,is this concidered ok or should i re ring it or just keep using it ?, as ive pulled the heads to replace gaskets and have a look and noticed the pistons move a little sloppy side to side and slight twist left to right all 6 feel the same ? is this normal concidering ive got good comps also all bores look ok,any feedback will be appreciated .thankk you

[Jim Speros]

Head gaskets need to be changed regularly in salt water. Good call even in fresh on a broader interval. I wouldn't be too concerned about the slop so to speak if its not making noise and compression is good. The only thing that would get me looking deeper is if there are water marks in bores. Its hard to wear out a good ol carb engine. Most often something takes it out. Like a bad head gasket or module.
I'd keep running it.

[rgsauger]

Your compression is absolutely textbook perfect. Usually they are around 120 from the factory so somebody may have shaved your heads just a little bit. I would not do anything except feed a diet of good fuel and high-quality oil. Have fun!

Ive got the same motor circa 1990

[rgsauger]

Also, if you have not already, delete the oil pump and go to premix. Your motor is about 35 years old so you definitely do not want to run an old oil pump.

[hobbymad]

Hi I’ve deleted the oil injection and spark advance box also replaced stator, trigger and switch boxes and several wires etc rebuilt the carbs and I’m waiting on my Chris Carson reed valves and stuffer plates so it should be good when it’s finished and the heads are flat so I don’t think I should have them shaved or do you guys recommend shaving them a bit to up the comp?,and what are you setting timing at as I will run 95 min to 98 octane

[rgsauger]

Sounds like a sweet motor. 23-25 degrees with high octane. Check all cylinders as some are often more advanced than the others. Those are the ones you gotta watch. More compression gives more punch down bottom and in the mid but not necessarily any or much difference on top. I run around 150 psi.