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Engine Compression

CAUTION: On diesel engines, DO NOT  add oil to cylinders during compression check, as extensive engine damage will result.

Check engine compression pressure with engine at normal operating temperature.

On gasoline engines, remove all spark plugs. Ensure throttle plates are wide open and battery is fully charged. Remove fuel pump or ECM fuse. Disconnect primary lead to distributor or ignition coil. Crank engine through at least 4 compression strokes. The lowest cylinder reading should NOT be less than 70 percent of the highest cylinder reading. No cylinder reading should be less than 100 psi (7 kg/cm2 ).

On diesel engines, remove air cleaner. Install Intake Manifold Cover (J-29664-2 or J-26996-1) over intake manifold opening. Disconnect Pink wire from injection pump shutoff solenoid. Disconnect glow plug wiring and remove all glow plugs. Use Compression Gauge (J-26999) to test individual cylinders. Crank engine through at least 6 compression strokes. The lowest cylinder reading should NOT be less than 80 percent of the highest cylinder reading. No cylinder reading should be less than 380 psi (27 kg/cm2 ).

COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS

Application Compression Ratio
2.5L (VIN E) 8.3:1
2.8L (VIN R) 8.9:1
3.1L (VIN D) 8.9:1
4.3L (VIN Z)
Non-Turbo (1) 9.3:1
Turbo 8.35:1
5.0L (VIN H) 9.3:1
5.7L (VIN K) (2) 9.1:1
6.2L Diesel (VIN C & J) 21.3:1
7.4L (VIN N) 7.9:1
Gasoline Engines
Min. Compression Pressure 100 psi (7 kg/cm2 )
Max. Variation Between Cylinders Less Than 30%
Diesel Engines
Compression Pressure 380-400 psi (27-28 kg/cm2 )
Max. Variation Between Cylinders 20%
(1) Heavy duty: 8.6:1.
(2) Over 8500 lbs. GVW: 8.3:1.