Diagnosis And Testing - Cylinder Combustion Pressure Leakage
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The combustion pressure leakage test provides an accurate means for determining engine condition.
Combustion pressure leakage testing will detect:
- Exhaust and intake valve leaks (improper seating).
- Leaks between adjacent cylinders or into water jacket.
- Any causes for combustion/compression pressure loss.
- Check the coolant level and fill as required. DO NOT install the radiator cap.
- Start and operate the engine until it attains normal operating temperature, then turn the engine OFF.
- Remove the spark plugs.
- Remove the oil filler cap.
- Remove the air cleaner hose.
- Calibrate the tester according to the manufacturer's instructions. The shop air source for testing should maintain 483 kPa (70 psi) minimum, 1,379 kPa (200 psi) maximum and 552 kPa (80 psi) recommended.
- Perform the test procedures on each cylinder according to the tester manufacturer's instructions. Set piston of cylinder to be tested at TDC compression. While testing, listen for pressurized air escaping through the throttle body, tailpipe and oil filler cap opening. Check for bubbles in the radiator coolant.
All gauge pressure indications should be equal, with no more than 25% leakage.
FOR EXAMPLE: At 552 kPa (80 psi) input pressure, a minimum of 414 kPa (60 psi) should be maintained in the cylinder.
Refer to CYLINDER COMBUSTION PRESSURE LEAKAGE DIAGNOSIS CHART.
CYLINDER COMBUSTION PRESSURE LEAKAGE DIAGNOSIS CHART
| CONDITION | POSSIBLE CAUSE | CORRECTION |
|---|---|---|
| AIR ESCAPES THROUGH THROTTLE BODY | Intake valve bent, burnt, or not seated properly | Inspect valve and valve seat. Reface or replace, as necessary. Inspect valve springs. Replace as necessary. |
| AIR ESCAPES THROUGH TAILPIPE | Exhaust valve bent, burnt, or not seated properly | Inspect valve and valve seat. Reface or replace, as necessary. Inspect valve springs. Replace as necessary. |
| AIR ESCAPES THROUGH RADIATOR | Head gasket leaking or cracked cylinder head or block | Remove cylinder head and inspect. Replace defective part |
| MORE THAN 50% LEAKAGE FROM ADJACENT CYLINDERS | Head gasket leaking or crack in cylinder head or block between adjacent cylinders | Remove cylinder head and inspect. Replace gasket, head, or block as necessary |
| MORE THAN 25% LEAKAGE AND AIR ESCAPES THROUGH OIL FILLER CAP OPENING ONLY | Stuck or broken piston rings; cracked piston; worn rings and/or cylinder wall | Inspect for broken rings or piston. Measure ring gap and cylinder diameter, taper and out-of-round. Replace defective part as necessary |