Posted by Dan (NH) [73.182.233.210] on Thursday, February 26, 2015 at 20:38:11 :
In Reply to: Pulled the Head, couple things wrong. posted by Willy-N [72.171.192.61] on Thursday, February 26, 2015 at 19:20:32 :
A compression test is one thing, but I always thought more of leakdown tests. This is introducing a regulated pressure into a cylinder that is set at top dead center with valves closed, with a gauge showing the amount of pressure loss. You can see the general condition of an engine quickly. A leaking headgasket into the cooling system would have pressurized the system and being noticable at the radiator cap.
More time consuming than a compression check, but also helps determine valve seating as well.
Cooling leaks into the cylinders are also indicated by buildup on the sparkplugs or the "cleaning" of carbon deposits in certain areas of the piston top or head.
Just my two cents. Good luck.
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