Is there any way of doing a compression test on an engine while it's not in the engine bay? I haven't been able to find anything that says I can but I thought I'd finally just ask.

 

Sure, engine importers do it all the time. A starter and car battery will do the job, however, make sure you have oil available for the pump.

 

If the oil cooler is not hooked up to the oil lines you can expect a BIG puddle of oil when you crank the engine over!
..good battery..trans and engine hooked together...put 12 volts directly to the starter..and keep your appendages out of the way of turning mechanisms or we will call you STUMPY!

 

Also make sure the engine is strapped down to a pallet or something. If left loose, they "sometimes" can go on a rolling adventure. I haven't seen it, only heard about it, so grain of salt?

 

Loop the front and rear oil fittings.

 

I fear I will be called stumpy -_- lol
Cool thanks for the info guys!