How to Use a Cylinder Compression Tester?
2 Answers
The method of using a cylinder compression tester is as follows: 1. Start the engine and let it run until the coolant temperature reaches approximately 80 degrees Celsius, then stop; 2. Use compressed air to clean the dust around the spark plugs, remove the spark plugs from each cylinder, and open the throttle and choke; 3. Expel the exhaust gases from the cylinder, place the rubber tip of the cylinder compression tester firmly on the spark plug hole of the first cylinder, and press down firmly; 4. Quickly turn the crankshaft using the starter or hand crank, record the pressure reading, and repeat the test 2 to 3 times, then measure the remaining cylinders in sequence; 5. If the cylinder pressure is below the standard, add 20 to 30 grams of fresh engine oil to the top of the piston. If the pressure increases significantly, it indicates piston ring wear. If the pressure remains unchanged, it indicates a leak in the valves or cylinder gasket.
As a hands-on car enthusiast, I've always found cylinder compression testers quite practical. First warm up the engine to normal operating temperature – usually just a few minutes of driving will do. Then shut off the engine and remove all spark plugs (remember to wear gloves to avoid burns). Next, insert the tester's adapter into a spark plug hole, have a friend hold the throttle wide open while you crank the engine. Observe the gauge reading – normal compression should be around 130-150 psi, with no more than 10% variation between cylinders. If any cylinder shows low pressure, it might indicate worn piston rings or leaking valves. After testing, reinstall the spark plugs. These testers are affordable and can save repair costs for DIYers, but always prioritize safety and avoid improper connections. Regular compression checks help prevent major engine overhauls and extend vehicle lifespan, especially useful for older cars – don't wait until problems arise to check.
