Compression test out of the car?

[Slavvy 0]

Well I've bitten a large, expensive bullet and bought an m30 sight-unseen over trademe. The seller said he would remove it for me a few days prior to delivery so the engine wouldn't sit too long without running, which is fine by me.

Now here's what bugs me. I asked him to do a compression test for me (since I won't be able to with the motor sitting on blocks in my garage) and he told me he would do it when the engine is out of the car since it's easier that way as the exhaust manifold gets in the way

I've compression tested several m30's while theyre in the car and I've never had any issues with the manifold getting in the way. I also have NO IDEA how youd do a test when the motor isnt in the car; how would you get it cranking? The only thing i can imagine is running cables from a battery to the starter motor and turning it over that way.

Any ideas?

[antil33t 90]

Maybe he has no idea what a compression test actually is?

Compression testing is no harder than changing spark plugs.

[B.M.W Ltd 950]

You can do the test without the motor being in the car. Just hook up leads to the starter and activate the starter solenoid. He probably hasn't got a compression tester with a flexible hose on it thats why he said the manifold gets in the way. A cylinder leak test is going to reveal more though. I'd rather be doing any tests on an engine in a car rather than out so I could actually hear it running as well. Too late for that now I spose ?. M30's are prone for cracked heads, cracked blocks and worn camshafts

Edited December 22, 2009 by B.M.W Ltd

[topcat 11]

it will be OK,if not, i can sell you a very good example.

one that is still in the car and can be started.

[Slavvy 0]

it will be OK,if not, i can sell you a very good example.

one that is still in the car and can be started.

My main reason for buying it is it came with a manual gearbox