Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) advantages to lowering compression?

[Bug1]

I have posted separately about the head gasket I am about to replace, now I am wondering if there is any advantage to lowering the CR while I am at it? This truck (96 w/5spd) is relatively mild (#11 plate, GSK, boost in the 20's, Dyno's 520ft/lbs) and I do not intend to bomb it any further, in fact, I would be happy with a reduction in power if it will make things last longer. This is strictly a tow/travel rig and reliability is the #1 requirement.



Will dropping the CR by getting the next size thicker gasket help with longevity?



-Zach

 

[mikel]

If you're really not going to add anything more then no, don't lower the compression ratio. Many here are running in the 30's for boost (myself included) and not having head gasket trouble. I believe that upper 30's to lower 40's is the point where headgaskets get to be the weak link.



Mike

 

[JGheen]

I would say lower the compression only if you are going to be throwing everything from water/meth to NOS at the engine. That would be a good reason to, but the lower you go the less heat the engine is going to make and that could cause combustion problems, depending on the resulted ratio you achieved. How were you going about thinking of lowering the ratio..... thicker head gasket? Bigger dish on the piston crown?

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

This is an old thread but I wanted to comment on it. I wouldn't lower compression unless you have a sound motor and plan to run quite a bit of fuel and high boost. I made the mistake of going . 010" on a 352,000-mile motor and have blue smoke all the time. Wish I would've stayed stock. I went . 010" on advice based on having the head shaved . 010" and wanting to leave valve clearance for an aftermarket cam. Then I find out upgrading the cam I should be OK. Oh well live and learn.



Vaughn