What do I need to do besides purchase the compression tester to test it at home?? What fuse or harness is disconnected so that the engine only cranks and doesn't fire?? I did a search but couldn't find anyhting and I would rather do it myself then take it to a dealer.

 

no spark plugs = no fire

 

so what you are saying is pull all of the spark plugs first?? or just disconnect the harnesses

 

It's very simple. BlownAP's comment doesn't help you much.

First, buy a screw in or thread in type [same thing] compression tester. They can be found at autozone usually.

If you want, you can pull the fuse to the fuel pump. I usually do not but if it makes you feel better do it.

You remove all the spark plugs. You install the compression tester similar to installing a sparkplug. You then crank the ignition with the motor WARM, NOT* hot, at WOT; for best results.

You keep the ignition turned until the gauge no longer increases noticeably. Usually it's just a matter of seconds. Do the same for each cylinder [each spark plug hole].

A leak down test is also a vital tool you should look in to.

 

Is this something I can do by myself?? I mean will the gauge needle hold the pressure reading until I can get out of the car and read it? Or will I need to crank the car over and have someone read the tester??

 

[QUOTE=ChefJ,Jun 24 2007, 07:32 PM] Is this something I can do by myself??

 

Here is a link for a DIY that i made a while back, but was never stickied.

DIY COMPRESSION TEST
Fadi

 

not to be rude but you cranking it by the number of crank is better than cranking it counting by time.

plus the human error factor of 4-5 seconds will varies alot.

 

Not taking it in a bad way at all! Fixed it! Thanks...you have a good point!
Thanks
Fadi

 

Thanks again guys.