Test Engine Condition Out of Car?
 

Hi all. I am just wondering if there is any way to test and ascertain the condition of a 911 engine without being able to run it in a car. If an engine has not been run in a while, would a leakdown test give a valid indication of condition? Is there any way to know the state of bearings and other parts without taking an engine apart? Thanks in advance for any info.

The leakdown is about all you can acertain from a sitting engine. Then you also find out if the engine turns over smoothly.
Bruce

A cold leak down test is not ideal...

You might be able to remove spark plugs and get a bore scope to look at the cylinder walls.

Someone with a lot of engine experience (like Steve W @ Rennsport) might be able to make heads or tails of cold leakdown number, even though not ideal.

You could remove cam covers to make sure there is no obvious damage, i.e. metal debris in the housing, unusual wear pattern on the gears.

I don't know how much you would be able to see by removing the oil pump cover. You would get a limited view if the intermediate shaft. You would also be looking not to find metal debris.

If the intake manifold and exhaust manifold are removed, you may want to take pictures of each port and discuss them here, if you find questionable looking deposits.