ok....

i wanna do a compression test but i've heard so many conflicting opinions on how it's done. here are some of the methods i've heard

1. pull all spark plugs and screw in the compression tester and crank your car

2. pull all spark plugs and screw in the compression tester pull the ECU fuse and crank your car(i have no idea where this fuse is BTW)

3. pull all spark plugs and screw in the compression tester pull the fuel pump fuse and crank your car

4. pull all spark plugs and screw in the compression tester pull the fuel pump fuse and disconnect distributor and crank your car

seriously...which one of these is correct? i'm affraid to try any of them for fear of screwing up my car. it just baffles me that there are so many ways that people claim they've done it.

 

http://www.google.com/search?source=...w=1366&bih=585

You won't screw anything up. You really can't screw anything up doing this.

Pull the plugs out of the ECU.

 

Edit

;-)

 

so i really shouldn't be doing anything with the distributor? I've heard that you should unplug it so you don't burn out a coil

 

Re-read my post. Edited. I would just do one spark plug at a time.

How Do I Perform A Compression Test? - Honda Forum : Honda and Acura Car Forums

That should be fine. I crank it over about ten times on each cylinder then take a reading.

 

If the engine runs, you want to test compression with it at normal temperature:
Break the spark plugs loose with engine cold, to make sure they are not stuck.
Start engine and warm it up then turn it off.
If the engine does not run, of course skip the stuff above, the only way to test is cold.

Take all the spark plugs out and leave them out during the test. That will reduce load on the starter so it will spin faster.

Disconnecting the ECU is a good way to be sure to kill the spark and fuel. Disconnect the battery before unplugging or replugging ECU.

 

Edit...

 

Hijacking the thread as I am currently stuck. If the engine doesnt run and I have all the plugs out (and valve cover off for that matter) do I need to do a "wet test" by adding oil into the cylinder? The full write up on my problem is on the thread "not a DIY noob" Thanks!

 

Why would you "need spark" when there is:
*No fuel being supplied to the engine... and...
*No spark plugs installed
?????
Because a guy at the parts store said so?

 

i am having trouble finding the ECU fuse in my owners manual. would it go by another name?