Cold compression test?

[HiFiSpi77]

I did some compression tests yesterday but didn't follow the correct procedures. I did them with a cold engine, took only one spark plug out at a time, tested and put it back, and I didn't do anything with the throttle while performing the dry and wet tests and the battery was not fully charged the entire time. I got some crazy numbers (surprise, surprise) so I want to do it again.
My "results" PSI:
#1-dry-131-wet-300
#2-dry-100-wet-212
#3-dry-129-wet-240
#4-dry-128-wet-190
Are the results from a compression test on a cold engine are useful? How long after a wet test can a dry test be done? Do I need to get it running to get the engine warm? Thanks for the help-Jason

[BEEK]

ok, loaded question but. a charged battery, a wide open throttle and all sparkplugs out at one time, is the only true way to compression test a motor in my opinion. now by adding some fluid for a wet test, was the amount of fluid measured or just poured in. the numbers that you show are not that bad for a cold engine though. what type of problem are you searching?

[HiFiSpi77]

No, the amount was not measured, about a cap full? I'm trying to evaluate the car as a whole....I paid $500 for it, put in a clutch cable (PO was driving when it broke) and got it started. It has a brake booster leak, tapping valves, and runs rough in general. I drove it home, parked it and have been able to start it since. I haven't tried to hard though, just evaluating what I got and what it needs. It's a 77 5speed 1800 with a mechanical choke Holley Carb and points.

[HiFiSpi77]

I did another round of "cold engine" compression tests today, throttle wide open, all plugs out, wet and "dry"-I did a wet test 24 hrs prior to this "dry test". here's the numbers:

#1-----d-130----w-300 and d-240----w-238
#2-----d-100----w-212 and d-160----w-240
#3-----d-130----w-240 and d-130----w-150
#4-----d-130----w-190 and d-150----w-160

[majicwrench]

What you are looking for is about the same reading all four cylinders. Cold is fine, as long as all cylinders are cold
Not a fan of "wet" compression tests.
Seems you consistantly get a lower reading is #2, so that is reason for concern, BUT that is not causing your no start. Get it running, get it warm, and check it again.
Keith

[124JOE]

yes anything under 80 may have problems
yours is fine

fuel and spark next,or again