Hey guys / gals,

2009 Cooper S
124,000 miles
6-speed
N14 engine

I'm thinking I have a bad exhaust valve. Rough idle, different sound from the exhaust, less power.
I did a compressing test and #4 seems low.

Going to pick up a leak down test tool tomorrow. I got a idea of what needs to be done. Took some classes on youtube. The good stuff. There's just one part that I have an issue with, how does one turn over this engine by hand? There just doesn't seem to be any room.

What are y'alls tips / tricks to rotate the engine over in a controlled manner?

Thank you

 

Breaker bar and socket on crank pulley bolt with spark plugs and accessory belt removed. Turn clockwise only.

 

Just a suggestion, but you can get a articulating fiber scope on Amazon, Pull the #4 spark plug and and rotate the scope to look up at the valves. Hopefully, you don't find this:

 

Big ooof!

Going to try and get the leakdown test done today and see how that goes.