kompressjonstester

Kompresjonstester is a term originating from Norwegian and translates to "compression tester" in English. It refers to a device or method used to measure the compression pressure within an internal combustion engine's cylinders. This measurement is crucial for diagnosing the health and performance of an engine.

A compression tester typically consists of a gauge that attaches to the spark plug opening or a glow plug opening in diesel engines. When the engine is cranked, the tester measures the maximum pressure built up within the cylinder during the compression stroke. Healthy engines exhibit a specific range of compression pressures, which can vary depending on the engine's design, age, and manufacturer specifications.

Low or inconsistent compression readings in one or more cylinders can indicate various problems. These might include worn piston rings, leaking valves, a damaged cylinder head gasket, or cracks in the cylinder head or block. A mechanic uses the results from a compression test to identify potential mechanical issues and determine the necessary repair actions.

Performing a compression test involves removing all spark plugs or glow plugs, attaching the tester to one cylinder, and cranking the engine with the throttle fully open. This process is repeated for each cylinder. Comparing the readings from each cylinder to the manufacturer's specifications and to each other helps in pinpointing engine wear or damage.