This is a low cranking compression, especially when you compare it to engines like the ZZ4 350ci/345hp crate engine that makes around 190 psi or the current HT 383 with 9.1:1 compression and a big ...

But, here's the confusing part, for this story, we're not interested in some killer 14.5:1 compression ratio that could make an engine detonate to death as easily as it can make it sing.

I didn't check the cranking pressure, but my guess is that with 10:1 static compression, it will be around 195 psi. Let's dive a little deeper into the relationship of cam timing to compression.

A compression test reveals the condition of your engine's valves, its valve seats, and piston rings and whether these parts are wearing evenly. Healthy engines should have compression over 100 psi ...