Leakdown tester

rlane · 11-03-2005, 10:01 AM

I am finally getting ready to drop my engine and replace head studs/top end job. I have not done a leakdown test on it and want to. Question is that the super nice Snap-on tester retails for $299. I see inexpensive testers on eBay for $75. Now I usually prefer really good tools but has anybody used these less expensive leakdown setups? In this case I and a buddy might use the tool twice a year, not several times a week like a real shop. Is there an issue with accuracy of the inexpensive testers ? Or of course any local Pelicanites that want to let me borrow one....

Jeff Alton · 11-03-2005, 10:20 AM

The accuracy is related to the quallity of the guages. The basic hardware should all be pretty similar. I have used a cheaper one for years with out any problems. .... You could always get a cheap one and replace the guages if you were really concerned about them.

Cheers

syncroid · 11-03-2005, 12:52 PM

I have been using one of the less expensive ones for years and it works fine. (till I dropped it the other day) :O
This is it, or was it.

code7rpd · 11-03-2005, 06:43 PM

Tavia Performance makes a good one and it is not too expensive:

http://www.tavia.com/cat8.html

Henry Schmidt · Henry Schmidt's Garage

The two gauge types show differential pressures and tend to be more accurate.

euro911sc · euro911sc's Garage

I bought a used 2 gage Longacre one off ebay for less than $40. Worked fine after I resealed all the joints. I might swap the gages out at some point if I have nothing else to do.

-Michael

rlane · 11-04-2005, 03:48 AM

Thanks guys, I scored one on eBay this AM for $50, time will tell!

RiskyBusiness · 11-04-2005, 05:04 AM

Leak down testers are not rocket science. I rolled my own using instructions found here. All the parts costs about $20. I got a regulator/gauge combo at Northern Tool

I upgraded it a bit by using an air hose with a swivel and a number of quick connects.

This is a motorcycle site but the same tool works for autos. I have created different ends for each motor I work on. I'm very pleased with it.

RiskyBusiness · 11-04-2005, 05:20 AM

Leak down testers are not rocket science. I rolled my own using instructions found here. All the parts costs about $20. I got a regulator/gauge combo at Northern Tool

I upgraded it a bit by using an air hose with a swivel and a number of quick connects.

This is a motorcycle site but the same tool works for autos. I have created different ends for each motor I work on. I'm very pleased with it.