Good point. I have only had exhaust leaks on my high performance engines and they run much richer than most.

Larry

Not necessarily true. If the crack is between the exhaust valve and the exhaust manifold, a compression check will not reveal a crack/leak in that area. We found that this past week on our #2 cylinder on our Warrior. It compression tested at 76lbs, but a cracked cylinder in the exhaust port was found.


I agree, I was pulling high 60's on my O-360 so technically a pass. But it still didn't feel right when running. So, I sprayed soapy water around the head and sure enough I had bubbles. Pulled the jug and found a crack between the bottom plug and exhaust valve.

If I remember it was black

Exhaust Leak
 

I?ve seen this strange orange color many times before. You have an exhaust leak at a minimum but looking around the sparkplug I suspect you may have a cracked head as well.😕

Well...it doesn't give me a good feeling so the airplane has come off purchase list. Too many other great airplanes to even consider.