How to Test Car Piston Rings
When you want to diagnose what's ailing your car, you should star by testing the parts that are easiest to replace and make your way from there. You can check your piston rings without disassembling your engine.
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Instructions
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1
Remove the fuse that controls the fuel pump. Depending on the make and model of your car, this may not be necessary. However, unless you're sure your car's internal computer will prevent the engine from running, it is safer to remove the fuse.
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2
Take the spark plugs out for each cylinder by turning the nut counterclockwise with the appropriate size socket bit.
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3
Consult your auto repair manual to disable the ignition system. This prevents any combustion in the cylinders as you're checking them.
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4
Put the throttle in a completely open position. The location of the throttle varies by make and model, so check your auto repair manual.
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5
Attach the compression gauge and adapter fitting to the spark plug socket in one of the cylinders. Start your car. The needle on the compression gauge should move at least four times to be sure it is registering correctly. Repeat this process for each cylinder.
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6
Check the reading on the compression gauge. If it is significantly less than 100 pounds of pressure, chances are you have a bad piston ring.
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7
Confirm you have a bad piston ring by squirting a moderate amount of 10w30 motor oil in any piston with a low compression reading. If the compression improves after this, it means your piston rings absolutely need to be replaced.
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