How to Use a Compression Tester
by CYV Industries Online Marketing ConsultancyThe compression of your car’s engine is a very
important characteristic for proper functioning. Poorly sealed cylinders can
lead to serious issues that may eventually result in the rebuilding of the
engine. Checking the engine’s compression involves an instrument called
compression tester.
What is a Compression Tester?
The compression tester checks the valve and rings of
the engine and it detects excessive carbon. There are two varieties on the market.
The threaded screw tester is screwed into the spark
plug opening.
Alternatively, you can use a hand-held compression
tester. If you choose this possibility, you will have to work with another
person. Your helper will have to crank the engine while you are performing the
test.
The traditional compression tester consists of an
indicator dial gauge, a testing tube and a spark plug holder or a rubber tip in
the case of a hand-held piece.
According to professionals, threaded screw
compression testers provide more accurate readings.
How to Check the Engine’s Compression
The engine manufacturer will provide you with the
correct compression reading. You should use it as a guideline while performing
the test. Keep in mind there could be variations in compression engine readings
recommended by different manufacturers.
You first need to remove the spark plug from the
engine cylinder you are about to test. Never attempt removing a spark plug at
working temperature because it will lead to severe burns. Locate the distributor
cap and pull the centre coil wire. By doing this, you will be preventing the
engine from starting but still building compression to perform the test.
Get your spark plug compression tester. Install it
in the hole of the spark plug. Hand tightening is usually sufficient to
position the tester accurately. Hand-held testers have a rubber tip that has to
be pushed into place.
Crank the engine and take the compression tester’s
measure. For best results, perform the test a couple of times and calculate the
average or choose the test reading that appears most often. Use the
manufacturer-supplied information to compare the results.
Press the release valve to release the compression
from your car’s engine. You are done! After you are done testing and reinstalling
spark plugs, run the engine to make sure that everything functions properly.
A Few Additional Tips and Considerations
If you own a hand-held compression tester, you may
be interested in creating a better seal for more accurate readings. Grease can be
used to achieve that goal. Just use your finger to apply a little bit of grease
on the rubber tip.
There could be specific compression testing
procedures for particular engine models. It may be a good idea to familiarise
yourself with the process before getting started. Manufacturers may suggest
different methods of creating engine pressure, so make sure that you are
informed.
Checking the engine compression is a simple, yet
highly beneficial procedure. Every vehicle owner should have a compression
tester. Perform the test whenever you experience any problem like the loss of
too much oil or a general lack of engine power. Compression testing will help
you figure out what the cause of the problem
is.
Author:
Tony Heywood is a ‘Retail Troubleshooter’ with 40
years’ experience in the retail industry, specialising in e-commerce over the
last decade. He has his own consultancy firm and is MD of e sell it, an on-line
store selling tools and auto-care products worldwide.
For compression tester kits & other auto-care
products at trade prices, please visit: www.esellit.com
Or call: 020 8201 0588
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Created on Dec 31st 1969 18:00. Viewed 0 times.