Okay so im going to go buy a d16a6 long block motor for my 1989 honda civic si for $200. What are some ways to make sure it will run before purchase?

Im pretty sure if I can hand crank it and it seems to have compression in all four cylinders it will run right?

I believe my only worries should be the piston rings? correct?

 

A compression test tells less than half the story. If you want to check it out the best you can without actually running it, leak-down testing is the ONLY way to accurately gauge the condition of the motor. With the two combined it will show you exactly where that motor stands mechanically.

 

Can I perform an acurate leak down test with the motor out of the car?

 

Yes - actually a compression check is about 5x more difficult out of the car. A leak-down test is the only easy test being that you actually DON'T want the motor to turn over when you are performing it; unlike a compression test where you have to turn the motor over.

 

Okay thanks. Would a place like auto zone or andvanced auto parts do a compression test on the motor if i brought it to the store in the back of a truck? Im sure I could do it my self but im just wondering.

 

I'd have to say no, but if you took it to a garage I'm sure they would.

 

Say like the garages at walmart where they do all there automotive stuff? Think they would?

 

I meant to say leak down test^^^

 

I can assure you no parts stores or Wal-Mart style supermarket people will do the tests let alone probably even know what they are.

 

Your gonna just have to stop at some garage along the road, any garage *garage* will know and do it for you.

 

check this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofSiTGeLXvc

you can rent the gauge from some autoparts store (well at least here in Canada)..

 

Okay thanks guys. Im gonna have to look around for a local garage, And actually I have a buddy that has one of these testers(well im pretty sure he does) and Ill ask him about it. Thanks for the help. Ill let you know how the engine is after all this is finished.