[Jeff Chambers]

It doesn't necessarily mean that the rings are bad. I could be that the end gaps are just filed too large or that they haven't completely seated. It also may be a result of the type of ring used. If you've gone with a small package (.043/.043/3mm) or a super low tension set, this would be expected. Do the leakdown and see if it shows signs of any real problem.

In terms of an evacuation system, you can go cheap or go expensive. A header system probably won't solve your problems but a pump system would. A complete Moroso setup might cost you $700-$800 by the time you buy the pump, pulleys, brackets, hoses, etc. I use an air pump off a late model truck so by the time I bought the hoses, fittings and purge cannister I had about $250 into the system. It pulls a good 10 in-Hg at mid track under heavy load, but I burn up a pump every 30 passes or so (the air pumps aren't meant to spin with a motor at 8500rpm even though I've got it pullied down the pump still sees 5000). Thank heavens that Autozone exchanges them. A good Moroso or similar set though will be trouble free and will pull 14+ in-Hg for maximum HP gain. Don't try to pull too much vacuum though or you'll start affecting your engine oiling.