Reading a vacuum gauge

Motor, Aug 2001 by Layne, Ken

If your initial vacuum tests produce gauge fluctuations, you have a definite indication that the problem is limited to just one or a few cylinders. In these instances, a power balance test can help you pinpoint those cylinders and the condition they're in. Does the engine need a valve job (fluctuating vacuum) or a complete engine exchange due to universally worn rings and cylinders (steadily low vacuum)? Combine modern power balance testing with traditional vacuum analysis and you'll have the answer.

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Answers to Previous Assessment Quiz

(Secondary Ignition, May 2001) 1-A 2-B 3-B 4-A 5-A 6-D 7-B 8-B 9-C 10-C

The author would like to thank the staff members of The DMV Clinic in Santa Cruz, California, for their help with this article.