Compression Tester
 

Looking to purchase a Tester. Harbor Freight has them from @17.00 and up.
They are China I'm sure and may not be much good! NAPA has one for $45.00. Anyone have a Napa tester???? Good or Bad?

Re: Compression Tester
 

Paying attention to technique is probably more important than China vs USA. Good cranking speed, the number of cycles and open throttle and the use of lubricants are what's important. I suggest you buy "better" or higher level at HF or the NAPA one. Either will serve you for a lifetime.

Re: Compression Tester
 

I've got the Chinese made one from princess auto(your harbor freight equivalent). Works fine. Compared readings with a buddies more expensive brand, no difference.

Re: Compression Tester
 

Russ: What do you mean by "use of lubricants" ?

Re: Compression Tester
 

After testing and getting some LOW readings, some folks will squirt a shot of oil in the cylinder to see if that will help raise the readings, in the case of worn-out COMPRESSION rings. It doesn't 'fix' anything, but can help to verify bad comp rings. DD

Re: Compression Tester
 

Make sure its a screw in type. I still have my American made ABW one, spot on .
And while you're at it make sure you have a good vacuum gauge too..

Re: Compression Tester
 

It's hard to say if the HF version will be good or not. I find most things from there either work great or break the first time you use it. There is a lot of companies that sell compression testers. Napa probably is a good bet. Probably a good chance they are all made in china. You can ask Napa, and if they are not. Buy it.


Snyder's Model A sells a 14mm to 18mm adapter to run 14mm plugs in a model a. You can buy one to use when you compression test your early ford.


Lastly, if budget is an issue. Autozone (probably others) loan tools for free. They charge a hold on your credit card till you bring it back and then they refund it.


Best of luck!
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