ATTN: Engine guys - need a solution, Just a couple of questions Options

[ahdoman]

2.0 engine is out of the car with trans still attached.

Question #1 - I need to check compression (I know, it's easier before the engine is out but it's out). If I connect the battery (+ & -) to the solenoid will the engine turn over? Will this damage anything. Obviously I am not trying to start it just want to turn it over to measure compression.

Question #2 - If I find that compression varies on some cylinders I would like to be able to determine if it is rings or valves leaking. My plan was to put my rubber tipped blower nozzle into the sparkplug hole, pressurize and listen into case, intake or header to see if I hear a leak. The problem is as soon as I pressurize the cylinder the piston moves to the bottom of the stroke. Any ideas as to how I can keep the cylinder on TDC?

[SLITS]

While a leakdown test is best (you can buy a leakdown tester at Harbor Freight for about $65), you can do a compression test.

Hook the + lead of a battery charger or battery to the normal lead on the solenoid. Hook the negative lead to the starter case, tranny or engine.

Using a screwdriver, jump from the + big lead to the spade terminal on the starter ... the engine will spin just like you were using the key.

Make sure you hold the throttle wide open and pull all the plugs prior.