Alright peoples. The time has come. I've leakdown checked my buddy's 2002 EX with the D17A2. Engine was cold since he let the battery die and I don't want to potentially overheat more. Here are the results:

Cyl 1 & 4: 2% leak at 90psi.
Cyl 2 & 3: 9% leak at 90psi, radiator starts to push coolant and bubble.

It must be blown at the water jacket around those two cylinders. Does a hot engine normally raise those figures up by quite a bit, or do you think this is possibly a good candidate for a HG replacement?

I know I won't know 100% until I pull it apart and do some straight edge measurements, but has anyone gotten lucky with one of these? I'll basically be getting a head gasket set and new head bolts, taking measurements, and possibly getting resurfacing done at a shop.

 

Update: Tore it down 2 weeks ago and ordered a straight edge. The head and block were well within the 0.002" FSM spec in all areas measured, so I did not need to send anything to a machine shop. Also found out the fuel injector o-rings were flaking apart, the EGR ports were completely clogged, and the connecting pipe hose was cut. Did a full gasket kit, adjusted the valves, and cleaned the IACV and intake, now the car runs freaking awesome.

To anyone considering doing a head gasket on one of these cars, it's really not that bad. It's also a good time to clean your throttle plate, intake, and EGR ports, and adjust the valves. I was also able to clean all of the carbon deposits off of the pistons and valves.

 

Also good time to do the timing belt service, if needed.