ok Im obviously a genios or else I would already know...
but can someone explain to me what exactly a compression test is, and genearly how much they tend to cost?
thanks for any help you can give

 

hey whats up.a compreesion is a test that sees how well the seals in the engine are. as the engine turns, the air/fuel mixture is compressed. the amount of pressure is what is being recorded. the higher the pressure the better the compression. as engines get older, the seals are worn down making the engine lose a little bit of compression as time goes on. im not sure how much itll cost to get it done. but u probably wanna get someone who has a mazda rx7 compression tester. these ar a little more accurate than a regular piston compression tester cuz it take the compression of each cycle. buta regular one would just fine if u use it right.hope this helps. (by the way why do u ask this?do u think your motors blown? if so what r your symptoms? my rear rotor blew an apex.ran like crap but still ran.just no power n barely running.)

 

no the motors not blown
Im thinking of buying an 87 Turbo II and anytime I asked someone for advice in buying 7 they just said get a compression test. So I guess Im also curious if there is anything else that I should definetly do before buying a car. And thanks for that info.

 

Yes there is.

here are my tips.
1. Stand in front of the car - make sure it is leveled. If not it may have been wrecked.

2. Look under the car. Check for leaks.
Brown black oil
Red/ brownish red tran oil
green/ greenish brown anti-freeze (don't drink)
clear - duh water

3. Check tires see if they are worn funny. Sign of being mistreated.

4. Check exhaust pipe for really bad rust and gaps

5. Open hood before starting. Check everything out. No loose wires, duck tape, and PVC intercooling pipe is a no no. Look for oil and anti-freeze. If non good.

6. Get into car and check to see how stick feels in each gear/ same for automatic. It should feel tight and slightly notchy.

Start car and let idle for a while and watch water temp.

The 3000 idle start up is fine for like 5 - 7 seconds and should drop to 750 - 800 rpm

Drive car around see how it feels use your best judgement.

BTW check the little things.
Windshield wipers
Light operation
radio - if there is one
trunk operation
Key works in all locks and gas door can open.

 

thanks Eraumazda Im going to check out the car this weekend, so that helps a lot, esepciall "anti-freeze (don't drink)" - that was close...hehe