been offered an engine for 200 quid but it has low compression on one or more cylinders. what is the likely cause and is it worth buying. will it be rings?

Could be rings,Headgasket,valve's/valve seats or warped heads due to overheating!

been offered an engine for 200 quid but it has low compression on one or more cylinders. what is the likely cause and is it worth buying. will it be rings?

the most likely cause on these cars is piston or ring failure.as long as the block is salvageable then it will make a good base for a rebuilt engine.id try and get it a bit cheaper though.

how much would it cost to rebuild it myself if i was to change rings, new gaskets etc?

most likely failure is Head gasket out of the list of likely causes.

 

Mainly becuase the cars are prone to overheating problems with so many old water pipes and a dodgy water temp gauge, and the Head gasket is a weak point when overheating occurs.

 

The rings are prone to premature wear on the back two cylinders too, becuase they tend to run hotter.

 

But your not going to know for certain with an unkown engine like that.

so do you suggest i just decline his offer politely. i may have an engine sorted anyway. (hopefully, fingers crossed)

so do you suggest i just decline his offer politely. i may have an engine sorted anyway. (hopefully, fingers crossed)

IF in doubt don't buy it unless you intend to rebuild it ;)