[E-Type] Series 1 3.8L Compression -- What is an acceptable range?

E-Type
1

A quick question I hope. Recognizing problems with measuring cylinder compression (i.e.,
gauge error, importance of seal, effect of temperature), what is an acceptable range of values for
a 63 3.8 liter? I called a Jaguar dealership this morning who said that they didn’t carry specs on
cars that old. This is the same dealership with a 150 in the showroom. I suppose the car is safe
enough in the showroom, just don’t let the boys in back get there hands on it.
Thanks,
Kyle

2

At 12:41 PM -0600 11/25/97, Chatman wrote:

A quick question I hope. Recognizing problems  with measuring

cylinder compression (i.e., gauge error, importance of seal, effect of
temperature), what is an acceptable range of values for a 63 3.8 liter?
The official factory service manual cites 180 lbs. for the 3.8 E-Type. My
'64 FHC was just tested at having an even 150 lbs. for each cylinder and
the mechanic said this was acceptible for a 33-year-old E-Type. This may be
an idication, however, of the need for valve work some day.

Bob

3

180 pounds is original performance for a CR head that has not been milled
with stock 9 to 1 pistons. 150 even-all cylinders is ok for an 8:1
Head. Important thing is that readings are even. If they are even then
leave it alone.
Brian IzenbergOn Wed, 26 Nov 1997 17:38:34 -0500 “Robert J. Richardson” rrichardson@eurekanet.com writes: At 12:41 PM -0600 11/25/97, Chatman wrote:

A quick question I hope. Recognizing problems  with measuring

cylinder compression (i.e., gauge error, importance of seal, effect
of
temperature), what is an acceptable range of values for a 63 3.8
liter?
The official factory service manual cites 180 lbs. for the 3.8 E-Type.
My
'64 FHC was just tested at having an even 150 lbs. for each cylinder
and
the mechanic said this was acceptible for a 33-year-old E-Type. This
may be
an idication, however, of the need for valve work some day.

Bob