87 burb Internal Engine Problem?

[shultzee13]

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=502562 In my other thread I asked about the surging and rough idling -

I replaced everything so far but the EGR valve. Still doing it so....
I broke down and admitted defeat and took to mechanic. Mechanic advised that I have an internal engine problem.

This is what we know are think to believe:

1. piston number 8 not firing.
2. no water or antifreeze in the overflow reservior but plenty in the radiator
3. oil guage registers normal when driving. When stopping....goes to zero.
4. No anti-freeze on the spark plugs. Spark plugs are clean.
5. It runs rough idling. But smooth down the road.
6. Would't it feel horrible if one of the pistons wasn't firing? Besides rough idle the only other thing I get is a surging effect at red lights with my foot on the brake. It seems like it wants to go. It's not horrible, but noticeable.

I guess next is a combustion test. Any body have any theories that might make my day better by telling me it's possible it's not a $1,500 job to fix?

Thanks Guys
Eric