Then, using a similar type of connector as the compression test, we fill the cylinder with pressure What is a leak down test The tester then measures the volume of air needed to maintain, a predetermined pressure in the cylinder.
Diesel Engine Leak Down Test
A cylinder leak down test, can tell you if the loss of compression is from, worn rings, burned or stuck open valves or a leaking head gasket.
A cylinder leak down test is a diagnostic tool used to detect issues within a vehicle's engine cylinder by measuring how much air pressure is lost over time
It's crucial for pinpointing problems such as leaks in the piston rings, head gasket, or valves. See tools needed, testing procedures, and how to interpret results on repairpal. This video describes how to do a basic compression test or leakdown test on any diesel engine out there to check for major problems The first step is to make sure the engine is at (or very near) top dead center on the compression stroke
This will ensure that both valves are closed and the cylinder is in it's most airtight configuration It takes an engineer on the engine to determine the parameters for a leak down test, where as the compression test min and max lbs are most likely available Don't get me wrong if you have specs for a leak down test that's great, if you don't the results really don't mean much in my book for the work involved. Before you tear down the engine, pinpoint where problems are by using these three steps to do an engine leakdown test.
In this video, tom morgan autologic technical support specialist, demonstrates best way to perform a cylinder leakage (leak down) test
He also reviews what to expect for nominal values and common.
