I have an 88 Honda Accord with 371,000 KM on it and I think the problem is
that it is basically worn out. The compression on all cylinders is between
75 & 90 psi. It is suppose to be at least 141 according to the manual. The
timing belt needed changing so I did that job a couple of weeks ago but no
change in the symptoms. There is a chugging/puffing sound that comes out the
exhaust. I am thinking that this would be caused by exhaust valves that are
not seating. I have checked valve clearance and they are all set within
specs. I am assuming that the problem is a new head assembly and not rings
as it doesn't burn oil. I have heard that the catalytic converter plugs up
on these older vehicles and that I should remove it and put in a straight
pipe. No emission testing where I live, so that may be the cheapest next
step. Anyone else had a similar situation?