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Mechanical Inspection: Compression

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 1990 Mitsubishi Van, 1990 Mitsubishi Sigma, 1990 Mitsubishi Precis, 1990 Mitsubishi Pickup, and 1990 Mitsubishi Montero. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check engine mechanical condition with a compression gauge, vacuum gauge, or an engine analyzer. See engine analyzer manual for specific instructions.

DO NOT  use ignition switch during compression tests on fuel injected vehicles. Use a remote starter to crank engine. Fuel injectors on many models are triggered by ignition switch during cranking mode, which can create a fire hazard or contaminate the engine's oiling system.

COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS (1)

Application Specification
1.5L (VIN J) 171 psi (12.0 kg/cm2 )
1.5L (VIN X) 137 psi (9.6 kg/cm2 )
1.6L (VIN Y) 171 psi (12.0 kg/cm2 )
1.8L (VIN T) 131 psi (9.2 kg/cm2 )
2.0L (VIN R) DOHC 137 psi (9.6 kg/cm2 )
2.0L (VIN U) DOHC Turbo 114 psi (8.0 kg/cm2 )
2.0L (VIN V) SOHC, 2.4L, 2.6L & 3.0L 119 psi (8.4 kg/cm2 )
(1) Maximum variation between cylinders 14 psi (1.0 kg/cm2 )