Engine Rebuild, 1991 Civic

[lordoflight]

I've recently purchased a 1991 Honda Civic (knowing it required engine work). I've pulled the head, had it reconditioned by a reputable machine shop (required seals, 3 new valves, resurfaced etc.) The mechanical problem with the engine prevented an initial compression test as I removed a small piece of metal or aluminum from cylinder number 4 (1/8 round by 1/2 in long cylinder). The top of the pistons in 1 and 4 appear to have bashed by passing something like metal (a few pit marks from something in the top of the cylinder.) An inspection of the cylinder walls after removing the head showed no apparent scoring, scratches, or marks (particularly cylinders 1 and 4). Having cleaned things up, used new Honda parts for assembly, it started like a dream. After it warmed up however, it began to puff bluish white (not blackish) smoke (looks like burning oil, not coolant as it does not have that coolant sweet smell). An inspection of the oil, no appearance of coolant, no appearance of oil in the coolant. I've done a compression test as follows: Dry: 1-175, 2-175, 3-175, 4-180, Wet: 1-200, 2-190, 3-190, 4-195. By the way, I have let the engine run for about 1.5 hours after the head work, doesn't overheat, begins to smoke after it warms up, although not when your first start it cold. The plugs when pulled for the compression test appear as follows: 1 - a bit of black, 2 - normal, 3 - normal, 4 - sticky black. I'm looking for verification of my analysis which is new rings and rod bearings. Would this be correct? Comments? Suggestions?
Thanks for you help.

[gunnmen01]

I take it you didnt ring it when you rebuilt the motor, i always re-ring them on a rebuild. You shouldnt need to replace the bearings ever, honda bearings are so good, they last forever.


gunnmen01

[91civicDXdude]

If you are taking the block apart, just check the rod bearings.. if they appear okay, reuse them.