A Dumb, but Necessary, Question

[mxp01]

Gentlemen:

I have two 1275 engines I just cleaned up and am now getting ready to restore.

Can I run a compression test on these just on a workbench by hand turning the crankshaft?

Also, what is a normal reading on each piston?

Mike Pennell

 

[Healeysince59]

I don't think you can turn it fast enough by hand to do a compression test. I don't see why you couldn't do a leakdown test, however and that will tell you more than a compression test. (Advise from a guy that doesn't own a leakdown tester)

Marv J

 

[spritenut]

With the starter motor bolted to it, and a set of jumper cables from a good battery, you can crank it over on the bench.
I routinely start engines on my garage floor this way, just hook the hot to the terminal and use the ground to the ground of the case to engage the starter, hitting the screw to engage it will arc and spark

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Google compression tester and you can find parts and pieces needed to do a leakdown test. I think I took a < $10.00 air pressure gauge from Autozone and added a few parts and pieces I had in the garage to make a leakdown tester.

I used method Frank describes with battery and jumper cables. Be sure oil filter/lines/pipe to oil pressure gauge is plugged or you will find oil all over the place when you crank over.

Make sure blocks are bolted down to something. I've got a spare engine on a roll about stand made of scrap 2 x 6" and four large casters. 2 2 x 4's cut at the proper angles are bolted to the motor mounds. Motor is secure and rolls around easily.

 

[jlaird]

Heh, I just sat my extra engine on a small furniture dolly $10 from Harbor Freight.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Hey that works as well. Those lumps do get a little heavy to move around without wheels. Price is right.

 

[JPSmit]

Heh, I just sat my extra engine on a small furniture dolly $10 from Harbor Freight.

Oh, and Jack, I keep forgetting to post this - this goes months back to when we were discussing having a frame to run the engine out of the car. Was at a car show and saw this - not a great picture - sorry but a couple of u-shaped metal beams and I think 4x4"s underneath and away he went. This was quick and dirty for sure.

 

[Bayless]

How is this for an engine stand?

 

[JPSmit]

Nice - can I have the engine? I don't even care what it's for, it's shiny and I want it.

 

[Silverghost]

If I am not mistaken, early 30's Cadillac V-16....yes, V-16! Very impressive indeed.....!!

 

[Hairyone]

Cadillac V16 that'll be about 12.5 hp then

 

[Silverghost]

12.5 HP but 1250 ft/lb of torque!! LoL