Mechanical Inspection: Compression
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 1989 Mazda MX-6, 1989 Mazda MPV, 1989 Mazda B2600i, 1989 Mazda B2200, and 1989 Mazda 626. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Engine mechanical condition can be checked using a compression gauge, vacuum gauge, or an engine analyzer capable of performing a relative compression test. See engine analyzer instruction manual for availability and description of relative compression feature.
CAUTION:
Use a remote starter to crank engine during compression test, NOT the ignition switch. The fuel injectors on many fuel injected models are triggered during the cranking mode. This could cause a fire hazard, flooding, crankcase contamination, hydrostatic lockup, or lubrication to be washed off of cylinder walls.