Compression Check: Testing and Inspection

WARNING: When the engine and the oil are hot, they can badly burn. Turn off the engine and wait until they are cool.

1. Verify that the battery is fully charged. Recharge it if necessary.
2. Warm up the engine to the normal operating temperature.
3. Stop the engine and allow it to cool off for about 10 minutes.
4. Remove all spark plugs.
5. Disconnect the distributor connector.





6. Install a compression gauge to the No.1 spark plug hole.
7. Fully depress the accelerator pedal and crank the engine.
8. Record the maximum gauge reading.
9. Check each cylinder as above.
Compression:
Standard: 1,128 kPa (164 psi) @ 300 rpm
Minimum: 834 kPa (121 psi) @ 300 rpm
Maximum difference between cylinders: 196 kPa (28 psi)

10. If the compression in one or more cylinders is low, pour a small amount of engine oil into the cylinder and recheck the compression.
a. If the compression increases, the piston, piston rings, or cylinder wall may be worm.
b. If the compression stays low, the valve may be stuck or improperly seated.
c. If the compression in adjacent cylinders stays low, the cylinder head gasket may be damaged or the cylinder head distorted.

11. Connect the distributor connector.
12. Install all spark plugs.
^ Tightening torque: 15-22 Nm (11-16 ft lbs.)