
Cylinder working pressure is approximately 0.6 MPa, which equals 6 kilograms per square centimeter. If the cylinder pressure becomes unbalanced, it may cause engine knocking and power loss in the vehicle. In severe cases, it could even lead to complete engine failure. About cylinders: Cylinders are mainly divided into two categories - reciprocating linear type and reciprocating swing type. The reciprocating linear cylinders can be further classified into single-acting cylinders, double-acting cylinders, diaphragm cylinders, and double-impact cylinders. Conditions for cylinder pressure testing: 1. Ensure the vehicle battery has sufficient charge before testing, otherwise it may cause excessively low engine RPM leading to stalling in manual transmission vehicles; 2. Maintain the engine at normal operating temperature, as excessively high engine temperature will increase pressure within the engine cylinders.

I recently researched this when studying engines. Cylinder pressure generally ranges between 140 to 200 pounds per square inch (PSI), depending on the compression ratio and engine type. High-compression vehicles like sports models can exceed 200 PSI, delivering more power but being prone to knocking, so high-octane fuel is essential for protection. Low pressure is problematic, potentially indicating worn piston rings or valve leakage, leading to slow starts and increased fuel consumption. I've personally used a compression tester—simple to operate: cold-start the engine, remove the spark plugs, connect the tester, and read the values. Differences between cylinders shouldn't exceed 15%; otherwise, repairs are needed. Regular checks can detect issues early and extend engine life—don't overlook this.

After years of driving, I've found that cylinder pressure has a significant impact. The normal range is 100 to 200 PSI, with gasoline engines on the lower end and diesel engines higher. When pressure is insufficient, you'll notice obvious shaking and lack of power, possibly due to valve seal issues or carbon buildup. It's best to get it tested at a professional shop to avoid damaging your car. If the pressure is too high, such as from improper modifications, it can cause knocking noises and damage pistons, especially in summer when temperatures rise quickly. My advice is to monitor your engine's condition during every maintenance check and address any abnormalities immediately—don't try to save money by delaying repairs and risk bigger damage.

From a mechanical perspective, cylinder pressure is primarily determined by the compression ratio, typically ranging from 120 to 180 PSI under standard settings. A higher compression ratio like 10:1 increases pressure and thermal efficiency; however, the design must strike a balance to avoid ignition lag affecting performance. When measuring with a compression gauge, uniformity across all cylinders is key.

I modify cars for performance, aiming for cylinder pressures over 200 PSI for noticeable acceleration thrill, but it's high-risk. High-compression engines demand premium fuel to prevent knocking. Upgrading intake and increasing compression ratio can boost pressure, but don't overdo it—install stabilizing components like reinforced rings to ensure safety and avoid engine failure.


