Plug Wire Gone Bad.

Well I would like nominate myself for the march stupid award. After weeks, no months of dealing with this issue I've found it. Even though I could time off the plug wire it was still not providing the spark. I had weak power and the exhaust manifold was running at 90 degrees. When I pulled the plug wire it made no difference to the engine idle, checked the plug (good), and put the timing light on it (good). Finally I did some checks that Jimmy recommended (thank you Jimmy) and still nothing. Had to be the wire, changed it, oh yeah. Running good, finally went for that drive and yes the new O/D even worked. Fouled # 1 and 2 plugs in about 5 miles, too rich, but running.
Now the bad news, lost compression in #1 and #2, down from 165 to 145, #3 and #4 both 170.
ANy idea's on the compression? And thanks to all who gave advice through my LONG ordeal.

Brian

Maybe you should replace plug wires and plugs and then run it hard for awhile (Couple weeks) and then recheck the compression.

Have new plug wires on order. The plugs are brand new NGK's, but what the heck when the wires come in I'll get new plugs and try again. Can't hurt.