Compression tester for flathead

[Zax40]

Can anyone recommend a brand/model of compression tester that works well with flatheads and other older Ford engines? The local parts stores only stock cheapo metric ones. Looks like I need to order one if I want a good one that doesn't require a ton of adapters.

[tubman]

If i were you, I'd start stopping in at some of the local yard/garage sales in the area. I've picked up a lot of good old test and tune-up stuff cheap that way. I'm downsizing these days so I'm no longer in the market, but a neighbor of mine picked up a box full of stuff (including a dwell meter, compression tester, and two timing lights) for $5 a month ago. Everything works, too.

[Merc Cruzer]

Garage sales, swap meets and e-bay. My favorite one, that I use the most, is the bottom one (two piece) made by Snap-On. I have another Snap-On one, but the face glass is cracked. I found that one at an estate sale for virtually nothing. I would hope the original owner, would be happy that it still being used on a classic.

[Kurt in NJ]

Pretty much from the early 30s on the plug threads are metric, before that 7/8x18--- look in model a parts stores for adapter

[Jack E/NJ]

Whatsa matter with cheapo metric ones? Only need one cheapo 18mm to 14mm adapter if you have the big holes like on my 21 studder.

[Zax40]

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Originally Posted by tubman

If i were you, I'd start stopping in at some of the local yard/garage sales in the area. I've picked up a lot of good old test and tune-up stuff cheap that way. I'm downsizing these days so I'm no longer in the market, but a neighbor of mine picked up a box full of stuff (including a dwell meter, compression tester, and two timing lights) for $5 a month ago. Everything works, too.

Good idea. I plan to it the Northeast GA swap meet tomorrow morning. I'll keep my eye out for one.

[ford38v8]

The old rubber tipped testers don’t care what threads you have. Things to remember to get good consistent readings: Warm up the engine, remove all the spark plugs, crank through several revolutions.

[Lanny]

Also, hold the throttle plate open on the carb, then the cylinders can
suck in air, so you have a good supply of air to make compression.





.

[ford38v8]

Originally Posted by Lanny

Also, hold the throttle plate open on the carb, then the cylinders can
suck in air, so you have a good supply of air to make compression.

.

There’s always something that’s easy to forget!

[39portlander]

Pictured Rimac "corker" I found last year $20.00 still in the original box and Snap-on MT308KB you can find on fleabay.

Compared both and within a lb of each other when used on several different engine blocks.

[Zax40]

Thanks for all the advice guys. I really appreciate it.

[Tinker]

Originally Posted by Kurt in NJ

Pretty much from the early 30s on the plug threads are metric, before that 7/8x18--- look in model a parts stores for adapter

Snyders have them. Good company for things. 18mm (7/8x18) to 14mm adapter.


https://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/P...earchByKeyword