Hey guys, new to the forum and want to say thanks for all the info. I have a troubling situation and a more or less theoretical question here and looking for everyones 2 cents (or sense!). I just picked up a '77 johnson 115 and bayliner for $600, got her home and took a compression test and here's what I've got 120/120/120/35.......uuugh. Now, here's my theoretical question - I did a leakdown test and its holding next to nothing and can clearly hear it leak through the exhaust. Could this be a head gasket leaking into the water jacket through the exhaust? I've not had a chance to pull the head yet (I've ordered two new gaskets and waiting on them to come in), I know that's the first order with low compression, but am waiting for the replacements before I get into 'er. I've lost more sleep trying to convince myself this is all it is. I can say, as I've had it running on the muffs she sounds good (did a decarb albeit not as thorough as I'd like, but I dont want to run it too long for fear of trickle down problems if its rings), used the high idle lever and she operates great. I know I haven't put a load on her yet and that's a whole different story. Just looking for insight. Thanks.
