Compression tester options

[zktk01]

I am trying to decide between 3 choices for a new compression test kit, mainly small engines.
The 3 i have looked so far are might Vac, Lang, or OTC. I am leaning towards the OTC, but would like to hear some input.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002WSC0G/?tag=atomicindus08-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000R5CPAQ/?tag=atomicindus08-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AZAC9R2/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[mslim]

I have a lang leak down tester. I'm very pleased with it.

 

[Drill Sergeant Arc]

Lang is made in the USA, and has very good reviews. Win and win.

 

[Wrench97]

OTC is what I've had for many years, Do you want a compression tester or a leak down tester?
I've found the leak down tester more useful.

 

[dnschmidt]

If you have a scope, and I do, a compression tester isn't that valuable as you can do a relative compression test with a scope and an clamp on amp probe that tells you whether or not you have a compression problem. Once you know this the leak-down tester is valuable in determining what the cause of the low compression is. Once that's determined you go with an endoscope to look around in the cylinder to see what parts are screwed up. Last time I went through this dance was with my friend's 6.0 Powerstroke where the endoscope showed a piece of one of the pistons missing. That was a bad day.

 

[RaisedByWolves]

If you have a scope, and I do, a compression tester isn't that valuable as you can do a relative compression test with a scope and an clamp on amp probe that tells you whether or not you have a compression problem. Once you know this the leak-down tester is valuable in determining what the cause of the low compression is. Once that's determined you go with an endoscope to look around in the cylinder to see what parts are screwed up. Last time I went through this dance was with my friend's 6.0 Powerstroke where the endoscope showed a piece of one of the pistons missing. That was a bad day.

For doing small engines does the scope lead go on the pull rope?

Id go with the lang as it has nice short hoses.

 

[Monte]

CTA Tools - Made in USA

2012 - Master Compression Tester Kit

Test compression from lawn mowers to trucks Includes 8" (20cm) flex hose with 14 & 18mm threaded end, 10, 12 & 14mm long adapters, straight extension, offset and straight adapters with tapered cones and gauge head with pressure release valve and threaded end Gauge head is 2-1/2" (64mm) diameter...

ctatools.com

 

[zktk01]

I decied to go with Lang appreciate the info about CTA they have an impressive catalog.

 

[Madjik Man]

Going to bump this thread and ask if anyone has any insight in the Mityvac kit:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002WSC0G/?tag=atomicindus08-20

It appears the COO is Taiwan and not USA (per the vague listing)

 

[InjectorService]

Get that Lang one. You don't want those little adapters in the other kits. You go to unscrew the hose and now the adapter is stuck on the head.