Okay - after pulling the inlet manifold and seeing (via plug-holes and inlet ports) valves look to be ok just lots of crud on valve stems. Sprayed Subaru Upper Cylinder cleaner direct onto valves and wow - 1st hand view of this stuff working - just disolves away. Did another compression test with decent SCREW-IN tester (tip there for accurate tests) and got an even 100 psi in all cylinders cold. I think this engine has been built low comp for high boost in rally work - they are low but even. Reused inlet gaskets as near new with just a smear of Ultra-grey. Bolted back together (with no bolts left over!) - noticed MISSING engine mount to cross-member nuts!!!!. Found high-tensile nuts to fit and bolted the sucker in.

 

Anyways running 10psi with no pinging or detonation in 33 degrees heat (gotta find a way to get an intercooler without a bonnet scoop) and she does get up and boogie after 2500rpm. Not to mention the pleasure of driving her again with the 2.25 cat-back exhaust. Cheap - with a (cough cough) Holden straight thru muffler (no chrome fart-can here) sounds like a worked WRX and has the sweatest growl on the overrun.

Seems to be better anyways - not too bad a flat-spot (just that from the 30-70/70-30 cams). No sign of porting work BTW but i guess thats kinda redundant on a turbo.

BTW - any comments on RX body-stiffness? I notice all the metalwork box-sections across the parcel-shelf in the boot and imagine the difference compared to a wagon where all that is missing. dang, its good to have her back!!!!!