Originally Posted By: OVERK1LL
Originally Posted By: supton
Someplace, somewhere, I recall reading someone using Marvel Mystery oil to unblock the drain holes in the pistons. Apparently Saturn used small diameter holes whereas everyone else uses slots. The least amount of crud there causes the rings to not be able to handle the oil. Not sure how, maybe it was MM and ATF, idle at temp, then flush? Don't remember now. But I recall that theory (bad drain holes) as being a possible reason for so many Saturns drinking oil.
The issue is the oil control rings lose tension and then get stuck in their lands... providing, yes, you guessed it, no, or very little oil control!
He's tried MMO and a more effective solvent, AC Delco combustion chamber cleaner to get his consumption to the point it is at now. It is not going to get any better than this.
The compression test results indicate that the compression rings are in perfect health. His consumption indicates the oil control rings are not.
He's had good luck with heavier oil thus far, and, IMHO, that's the route he should continue with. I think an HDEO like a 5w40 or 15w40, which has higher detergency is a his best bet at keeping consumption where it is and preventing it from worsening. This has been echoed by other members as well.
My '96 base Saturn does about the same as described here.
I agree with the oil ring theories.
MMO helped a little.
Replacing obviously tired PCV, vacuum lines, ETC were no help at all on mine.
15W40 in the Summer and 5W40 in the Winter results in about 1QT consumption in 1500 miles.
It still runs like new with consistent 35 + MPG. I will drive this one 'till it drops. Good 'ol beater.
OP: that's excellent compression IMHO. I can only hope mine is as good. (SOHC 1.9)
Public service reminder to 1ST gen Saturn owners...
Check your Coolant Temp Sensor!!!
Rickey.