Automotive Machine Shop APM Heavy Duty, Explains How to Perform an Engine Compression Test

    ATLANTA, GA, October 15, 2013 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Engine compression can explain a lot about the health of your engine. A compression test can reveal what kind of shape your engine's valves, valve seats or piston rings are in and if they are evenly worn. Normal engine compression should be over 100 psi per cylinder, with up to a 10 percent shift from the highest to lowest readings.

If you notice blue smoke coming out of your tailpipe or your car is losing a lot of oil, it could be a problem with the piston ring. A bad piston ring can also lead to low compression in that cylinder, which is why a compression test can be a valuable tool.

APM Heavy Duty, an engine rebuild machine shop in Metro Atlanta, recommends buying a reliable compression testing kit, first. Also, it is also important to perform the test on a warm engine.

The first steps for a compression test are to disable your ignition system and disconnect spark plug wires and the main wire to the coil. Next, remove spark plugs and put the end of the compression gauge into a spark plug hole. Turn on the ignition, depress the throttle and crank your engine. Once you have a stable reading, record the pressure reading and repeat for all cylinders.

If a cylinder reads below 100 psi, put one teaspoon of oil into plug hole and perform the test again. If you notice a jump in the reading then the piston rings are worn out. If there is not a jump then look into possible valve problems.

Regular and proper maintenance is vital in preserving any engine. However, if you perform a compression test and find that parts of your engine are worn beyond repair then call APM Heavy Duty. This automotive machine shop has an extensive inventory of engine parts for Perkins, John Deere and Cummins engines. They can also complete a custom engine rebuild, if necessary.

According to David DeBuc, Vice President of APM Heavy Duty, "We believe in serving our customers by giving them a wide selection of quality engine parts at affordable prices. We can ship anywhere in the U.S. and even throughout the world. You can trust us to work hard to meet your expectations and fulfill your heavy duty engine requirements."

A successful supplier of Deutz engine components and other engine parts for many years, APM Heavy Duty is one of the best shops in the industry. Building their reputation on their great inventory, affordable prices and excellent customer care, they continue to set the standard for service and selection.

About APM Heavy Duty:

APM Heavy Duty is a division of APM Inc., a family-owned business operating in Metro Atlanta since 1961. We have a comprehensive selection of engine parts and offer a wide variety of services as well, including complete engine rebuilding, crankshaft grinding and restoration, and cylinder boring and honing.

For more information, visit http://www.apmheavyduty.com/.

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