Additional Engine Measurements: Notes

During engine repair procedures it is sometimes necessary to assess engine wear to make determinations on parts replacement. Also, some engine measurements are needed to verify a previous diagnosis.

For example, a cylinder leakdown test could indicate a cylinder sealing concern. Once the engine is disassembled, it would be necessary to verify this condition by checking the piston and piston ring condition. If OK, the next step would be to determine the condition of the cylinder bore. At this point, the cylinders should be checked for taper (conicity) and for out-of-round. The correct measurements could mean the difference between just replacing the rings and/or pistons or replacing the engine block. This is why it is necessary to make accurate measurements when needed.

Some of the other routine engine measurements include:

• Cylinder head warpage
• Cylinder head thickness (on some applications)
• Piston rings - end gap and axial clearance

* Cylinder bore - including out-of-round and taper