Best Engine Compression Gauges in 2022

Last update: December 6, 2022

Can a compression test damage engine?

A compression test can damage an engine by causing it to overheat. The engine may also be damaged if the compression test is done incorrectly.

Can a scan tool check compression?

Yes, a scan tool can check compression. To do this, the scan tool is connected to the vehicle's diagnostic port. Once connected, the scan tool can access the vehicle's data and read the compression readings.

Can you check engine compression with OBD2?

Yes, you can check engine compression with OBD2. However, it is not as simple as just plugging in and checking. You will need to have a special tool to attach to the OBD2 port, and then you will need to run a compression test.

Do you have to remove all spark plugs for compression test?

A compression test will check the condition of your engine's cylinders and pistons and is a good indicator of the overall health of the engine. The test is performed by measuring the amount of pressure that is generated by the engine when the spark plugs are removed and the engine is cranked over. If you are just checking the compression of your engine, you only need to remove one spark plug. However, if you are also checking for leaks, you will need to remove all of the spark plugs.


OTC 4748 Belt Tension Gauge Review:


It greatly simplifies life and eliminates guesswork, which I have been doing for more than 20 years. I should have bought one a long time ago. My guess setting was way off, so I tested it. Buy this tool; you won't regret it, and it will probably make your belt last longer. Keep in mind that using belt dressing will shorten its lifespan.



ProForm 66835 Mini Valve Spring Tester Review:


I put this to the test using my own weight and some fresh springs. 100 and 200 lbs appear to be within 5 lbs of one another. I mount it in my mill's vice and press the spring down with an old lifter in a 3/4" collet. The arrangement operates nearly as well as a professional spring tester thanks to the quill DRO scale and stop.



ABN Compression Tester and Adapters – Dual Automotive Compression Gauge with 14mm and 18mm Compression Tester Adapter Review:


This affordable compression gauge includes quick disconnect and replaceable screw thread sizes, as well as all the precision and functionality of a much more expensive gauge. Most notably, it contains a scrader valve at the end piece that screws into the spark plug, guaranteeing precision. On the same chainsaw engine, I compared the readings from this gauge to my older, higher-quality gauge, and they were precisely the same (175 psi). It's interesting that when I quickly attached either this gauge or my better gauge to the tubing from a less expensive compression gauge kit that lacked a shrader valve on the business end, I only obtained 105 PSI. I threw the gauge away but kept the hose since I was getting incredibly low readings with that broken old kite. It turns out that the hose in that inexpensive kit had a flaw as well because the screw-in fitting lacked an actual shrader valve. Make sure that any compression gauge line you choose includes an air pressure release valve at the indicator end as well as a schrader valve on the threaded end. Cheap gauges only feature a flap valve, and when pressure is applied, those leak air. The better gauges—including this affordable one—have a release valve in addition to an actual, replaceable Schrader valve. I didn't believe it when I watched a YouTube video that said this. But believe me, it truly does make a difference.



Engine Compression Tester Testing Gauge Gage Check Test Tool Kit Review:


Very nice and brilliant headlights. The only problem is that it doesn't fit perfectly in a 1997 Firebird. They are positioned slightly more outward in this installation (toward the front). Thankfully, they don't interfere with the bumper cover or the hiding function. I'll soon need to safeguard the wiring using wire loom protector. A nice improvement over halogen overall. Wiring required some trial and error.



BETOOLL HW0130 8pcs Petrol Engine Cylinder Compression Tester Kit Automotive Tool Gauge Review:


many alternatives for connecting. The hose and tip appear to be sturdy and well-made. There was a decent how-to instruction available that quite well mirrored the advice offered by the knowledgeable men in those car forums. If you're performing the tests alone, you can crank from the driver's seat without fearing that you won't have an accurate wnd reading when you get out to check it out. The gauge holds pressure firmly.



PMD Products Compression Gauge Test Set for Engine Cylinders Diagnostic Tester with 4 Long Reach Hoses M10 M12 M14 Review:


Amazing set. The identical kit is available from multiple manufacturers for significantly varying prices, yet they are all the same. This fits wonderfully on my BMW K1100 headed mini, which I used it on. The nicest part is that each hose has a standard air fitting, so I can use them with my leakdown tester by simply connecting them into the fitting there! In addition, the hoses are very tightly crimped and have a 500psi rating (meaning they have been tested to over twice that pressure).One of the best tools I've ever bought from Amazon, I'm overjoyed.



PMD Products Compression Gauge Test Set for Engine Cylinders Diagnostic Tester Review:


It's perfect for me. For peace of mind, use it on all of my toys. It was fairly precise when I calibrated it using the pressure gauge on my air line.



Mityvac MV5532 Digital Compression Test Kit Review:


I work as a powersports technician in a growing store. My present shop had a lot of tasks left over from prior technicians when I started working there. A low compression engine repair was one of the projects I inherited, but it didn't feel right. I quickly purchased this Compression Test Kit from Amazon, obtained a reliable compression result, and accurately identified what another professional had failed to do. I can only assume that the other technician utilized a compression test kit that was on sale. I was sent in the proper route by this compression test kit, and it has not failed me since. It rescued the day, spared me a ton of pointless effort, pleased the client, and made a good impression on the boss. I can't emphasize enough how crucial it is to have reliable equipment when you're a professional mechanic or tech, and this is one of them. Everything is kept in its rightful place in the excellent case that it comes in. The gauge is accurate, and each time you switch it on, it seems to reset to zero. The back light is useful in the motorbike shop's dimly lit nooks. I was thinking about getting the Innova compression gauge, but I decided against it because this one is over $100 less expensive, easier to use, and might even be more useful as it can measure more than five compression strokes per cylinder. In particular, this is true for smaller powersport engines, where 49cc of air will hardly fill the hose to the gauge in five revolutions.This set is reliable every time. I adore being able to test each cylinder, then scroll through the findings and record each one. every time saves a few minutes.



Goplus 16 pc Diesel Engine Compression Gauge Tester Cylinder Pressure Test Set Kit for Auto Tractor Semi with Case Review:


Summary:It's bad- Testing was challenging due to the large female coupler (see description)What's Good- Affordable kit for a variety of adapters- Adapters utilize common air line fittingsDescription:To perform a compression test on a 6.5L GM (Detroit) that I was installing in my suburban, I basically purchased this kit.On many cylinders, the gauge line's female coupler would not extend past the exhaust manifold while using the tester (I think that it was 3 that we could not test). We had no trouble threading in the male light plug insert, but we were unable to attach the gauge to it. The set uses common air line fittings, which is a plus. To reach two more of the cylinders, one of my brothers was able to create a short extension for a smaller female coupler he had. Just the exhaust manifold was removed for the last cylinder (since the engine was out it was easy to do anyway).Due to the female adapter's excessive size when the exhaust manifold is attached, I docked one point. (I realize that most people won't find this to be a big concern, but I did find it a little irritating when they could have used a smaller adapter.)My brother wants to conduct a compression test on an ancient tractor (International I believe). If we do that, I'll update this post to reflect my experience.


How can I improve my engine compression?

If your engine compression is low, there are a few things you can do to try and improve it. One is to check your engine's valve clearance and make sure it is within specifications. Another is to make sure your engine's piston rings are in good condition and not damaged or worn. You can also try using a higher quality oil in your engine. Finally, if your engine still has low compression, you may need to have the cylinder heads rebuilt or replaced.

How do you fix low engine compression?

If your engine has low compression, there are a few ways to try and fix the issue. One way is to check all of your engine's seals and gaskets to make sure they are all intact and not leaking. You can also try adding a higher-octane fuel to your tank to see if that helps. If neither of those work, you may need to replace your engine entirely.

How do you get the compression back in a cylinder?

If your car's engine has a compression problem, there are a few ways you can get the compression back in the cylinder. One way is to use a compression gauge to check the compression in the cylinder. If the compression is low, you can use a compression pump to add compression to the cylinder. Another way to get the compression back in the cylinder is to use a compression release valve. This valve allows you to release the compression in the cylinder so that you can add more compression.

How do you read a cylinder leak down tester?

To use a cylinder leak down tester, you first need to remove the spark plug from the cylinder you want to test. Next, attach the tester to the cylinder, making sure that the rubber gasket is in place. Once the tester is attached, open the valve and slowly pump air into the cylinder. The pressure gauge on the tester will tell you how much air is leaking out of the cylinder. If the cylinder is leaking, you will need to find the source of the leak and repair it.

Is 120 psi enough compression?

120 psi is enough compression for most car engines, but it is not enough for all engines. The compression ratio of an engine determines how much compression is needed. A higher compression ratio means that more compression is needed.

Is 200 psi a good compression?

A compression ratio of 200 psi is considered good, but it can vary depending on the make and model of the engine. Higher compression ratios are often better for performance, but they can also require higher octane fuel to prevent knocking.