I'll valve adjust 4 cars vs. compression testing

cab83_750 · 10-13-2003, 10:20 AM

So, what are the secrets to compression testing on a P-car? I bought the deluxe compression unit and the sucker has a lot to be desired. Adapter is too short for the deep sparkplug hole and I spent so much time retrofitting the unit to be usable. Although I am done, the exercise was a 'frustrating' experience.

What units do you guys have?

moazam · moazam's Garage

At the 911 Tuneup class this Saturday (10/11/03), Jerry had a adapter hose from Snapon Tools that worked pretty well. He was able to get in there and check compression very fast.

Maybe someone else from the class can chime in on what exactly that adapter/hose was, and where to get it.

IROC · IROC's Garage

I have a cheapo AutoZone special and it works like a charm....

Mike

cowtown · 10-13-2003, 10:41 AM

I've got a cheap Sears Craftsman tester that's worked well for 5 years. You can disconnect the gauge from the hose, leaving about a foot of hose attached to the male threads that go into the sparkplug hole. It's very easy to thread just the hose in, then snap on the gauge. Can you disconnect the gauge on yours?

atlporsche · 10-13-2003, 11:43 AM

I've got the same cheap craftsman...

but I've only got 2/3 the frustration....

sjd

cab83_750 · 10-13-2003, 12:11 PM

My kit has basically two units:

1. 'cylinders/barrels' with 'male air nipple adapter' at one end and threaded other end. You thread one end into the plug.
2. Another unit consisting of the gauge, hose and the female adapter that connects to the unit in #1.

Connection is like connecting your air compressor tools to the air compressor hose. My biggest frustration is that once you thread unit #1, the male nipple is still deep into the valve covers. This prevents you from being able to pull the sleeve of the female adapter so you could release the locking mechanism.

I suspect that I am like Forrest Gump yesterday. I must be using the kit incorrectly.

rick-l · 10-13-2003, 12:36 PM

I also have the Sears unit with the seperate hose through an air tool type connector. Be sure of a good seal by twisting the rubber hose is a pain.

Would it be good welding practice for me to bust the ceramic out of a spark plug and weld the remainder to an appropriate length of steel pipe with pipe threads that will mate to an air connector on the end? Will Mr MIG do this? What is the plug made of? This would be a good excuse to run out and buy the Lincoln MIG 135 at Lowes.