does 30psi of compression mean i need a new top end

When I first got it, my '89 had 45 PSI and ran pretty good, even tho it was missing the right crank seal spacer. (just a semi-random comment)

Are you SURE the compression tester is sealing well? Before pulling the top-end, look into the exhaust port; you can see quite a bit once you get the pipe off. Brando is right about the leakdown test, too. Finiding the reason it grenaded (if) is a priceless thing.