Hey guys I just have a few questions about running a compression test. I just read an article from motor age and here is how I plan on testing my compression. Let me know if this will work:

1. Run engine for 10 minutes to allow it be warm.
2. Disconnect coil pack harnesses from each side.
3. One at a time, pull the spark plugs and thread the compression gauge into the head where the plug was just removed. (Basically from what I understand, while I check the compression on one cylinder, the other 7 plugs are still threaded into the heads).
4. In order to check the compression for each cylinder, simply turn over the engine for 5 seconds or a little more.
5. Reconnect harnesses and grab a beer.

I just turned 100k on my odometer and I plan on running a leakdown test if any of my numbers on the compression test turn up dissappointing. The compression test will be me answer on whether I will run a heads and cam setup on this shortblock or simply make it a boltons car until the stock shortblock blows and then I can run my plans on a forged 346 h/c motor. Let me know because the results are important and I want to make sure I'm testing correctly. Also, any reccommendations on where I should get a compression gauge?

Thanks in advance,

Josh

 

cmon guys, its a simple yes or no question

 

Your supposed to let the engine get warm
Pull out all of the spark plugs. (easier on the starter and will get a more accurate reading)
Block the throttle so it is wide open throttle.
screw your adapter in one hole at a time.
Then crank engine about 4 revolutions.
If you get low readings then put some oil in the cylinders with a straw and then re preform the test. If the number go back up then its you rings that are leaking. If not then preform a leak down test and go from their. let me know if you have any questions i have done this like 20 times, just not on a f-body, because they are a pain in the *** to get to the plugs. Just hope you don't have to do a leak down, because then you looking at getting more involved.

 

Just do the leak down test from the start, it will let you know leakage and exactly where the leak is coming from.

 

I would try leakdown right off the bat but my compressor is so shitty that it would be constantly running building air pressure and on top of that the coupler I have is kind of leaky. I wouldn't be able to hear the leak anyways basically.

Josh