1973-914 2.0 compression issues., 914 2.0 rebuild suggestions Options

[9144me2enjoy]

I’ve a 73-914 With a the original 2.0L Fuel Injection engine. Has about 75k miles. Set for about 10 years, brought back to life about 6 months ago. Checked compression and got readings of 90-95 psi across all 4 cylinders. Engine seams to run pretty good with that compression. Doesn’t seam to smoke any while driving but some bluish smoke when you first start it up. Pulls good up to redline. I was hoping to get the compression up to a range of 135-150 psi. Without spending a lot of money, what would you recommend to improve the compression? Valve job, new rings? Who would you recommend to do the work in the area? Estimated cost, Located in Oregon. Thanks

[IronHillRestorations]

The oil trick can be hit or miss in a flat opposed engine as you'll only get the bottom part of the cylinders oiled.

If your plugs are black, you are more than likely rich on the fuel mixture, and could be exacerbating the rings not sealing due to washing the cylinders with excess fuel. It might not be that bad, but it's possible.

Sometimes an engine that's sat up for a long period of time can develop more compression as the rings re-seat, but not always. You can also have bad rings from sitting up too long. I'd say it's highly unlikely you'll see 150 on that engine, and all things considered 125 is a good number, where you're at now is borderline top end time.

If the rings are marginal, then you'll typically run on the rich side, because it's not holding compression.

I'd say drive it for a thousand miles or so, and keep close monitor on your oil and fuel consumption.