Compression - hand crank?

[jeffncs]

Is it possible to test compression in a 351w by turning the engine by hand? I have an engine of unknown origin that came out of the truck. No way to start it or test it aside from visual of valve train, visual of bottom end and hand crank compression.

All cylinders show -~30psi when engine cranked by the crank bolt.

I don’t want to drop the body over a dead engine. I can’t swing a reman engine now. Do I run it or should I find a good used engine e?

 

[ba123]

If they are all even, that’s at least a good sign.

Can’t you hook up a starter to it and run straight to battery or is the engine completely out of the Bronco?

 

[Viperwolf1]

Chuck Norris is the only man I know that can hand crank a V8 fast enough to get a good compression test.

 

[jeffncs]

If they are all even, that’s at least a good sign.

Can’t you hook up a starter to it and run straight to battery or is the engine completely out of the Bronco?

Engine is completely out of truck and on a stand. I could install a set of floor legs that are more stable and reinstall the flywheel/bell with starter.

 

[gnpenning]

I would do a cylinder leakage test in that situation.

 

[DirtDonk]

We sell a bolt on bracket that takes the place of the bell housing. It’s only purpose is to support a starter.
You’ll still have to bolt the fly wheel on, but it’s less intrusive on an engine stand than a full bell housing.
Sorry I don’t have the part number memorized. I’ll post a link tomorrow if you need it.

 

[Broncobowsher]

Leak down test would be a better test.

For an engine that has been sitting a long time the compression/leak down test may not show the greatest results on a good engine. Old engines that have been sitting will often come around and start running good after running for a bit and getting up to temp a few times. Rings unstick and the like.

If you have a good leakdown test, it is good. If a hole or two is low, run stand. Run it a bit before condemming it to needing a rebuild.

 

[jeffncs]

We sell a bolt on bracket that takes the place of the bell housing. It’s only purpose is to support a starter.
You’ll still have to bolt the fly wheel on, but it’s less intrusive on an engine stand than a full bell housing.
Sorry I don’t have the part number memorized. I’ll post a link tomorrow if you need it.

Just placed an order with you guys. Thanks!

 

[DirtDonk]

Thanks! Sorry it took so long to get back here, but glad you found it on your own.
For anyone who hasn't seen it, here's the link: WH Starter Test Bracket

Paul

 

[ba123]

Thanks! Sorry it took so long to get back here, but glad you found it on your own.
For anyone who hasn't seen it, here's the link: WH Starter Test Bracket

Paul

That’s a great idea!!!

 

[73azbronco]

Is it possible to test compression in a 351w by turning the engine by hand? I have an engine of unknown origin that came out of the truck. No way to start it or test it aside from visual of valve train, visual of bottom end and hand crank compression.

All cylinders show -~30psi when engine cranked by the crank bolt.

I don’t want to drop the body over a dead engine. I can’t swing a reman engine now. Do I run it or should I find a good used engine e?

Let me look up the hand crank compression chart, wait, there isnt any...

Not unless you have four Arnie S's to help...