My main question is, do I unplug the coil pack or not? I'm assuming that its just a matter of unplugging it at the side then testing it at each cylinder. If there's anything else I need to know, please tell me. Thanks all!

 

Can anyone help me out here? I'm borrowing a compression gauge and I don't want to risk blowing it up.

 

Okay,
Unplug each spark plug.
Unscrew the actual spark plug with a socket designed to fit that size.
Screw the compression guage in the spark plug hole.
Crank the engine(don't let it turn over) and record the readings for that cylinder.
Repeat for the rest of the cylinders.

TIPS: Remove the driver's side tire and access will be easier.
Have a friend help you. (also to help calm you down when you get frustrated and swear like crazy)

Hope this helps. What are the specifications?? (engine size, year, etc)

 

The factory manual says to do the check with the engine at normal operating temp. Remove all of the sparks plugs (not fun with a warm engine) and hold the throttle plate fully open. Then, install the pressure gage in the spark plug hole of choice and crank the engine. Repeat for all six cylinders.

I think there are a few other things that should be done like pulling the plug on the fuel pump shutoff switch (or the fuse) to disable the fuel pump and perhaps the ignition just to be safe. But, if you use a remote starter and leave the ignition off, I don't think you need to worry about that.

I did a "leak down check" on my engine. It's basically two pressure gages in series with an orifice between them. It measures the total leakage out of a particular cylinder by measuring the pressure drop across the orifice. You hook up compressed air to the inlet of the tester and install the tester outlet line in the spark plug hole. I didn't have to worry about cranking the engine with the leak down tester. Problem is, leak down testers ain't cheap, so few people have them. I got to borrow one from my local machine shop.