Leak down test qestion

[LONN17]

*question*

I picked up a roller 302 w/ windsor jrs, Crane RR's, GT40 intake, 50lb injectors, blower cam, etc. a couple weeks ago for a song that will be going into my car when it finally gets back together.

I plan to at least do a gasket rebuild and check bearings etc. along with doing a leak down test before I disassemble it any further. My question is that since the heads are going to come off anyway; if I remove all the rockers, effectively closing all valves, can I avoid having to get on TDC-compression stroke (being lazy I know). I don't see any reason why this should give poor results....

Thanks,
Trevor

 

[Steve69]

I think that would be fine. You would just feel at the throttle body and your exhaust side of the head for air flow to determine if its a intake valve or exhaust valve. If you feel air coming through your thermostat housing or waterpump you have a blown head gasket. From what I remember if you have 20% or less your good to go. Any higher than 20% you have some problems.
Steve69

 

[ultrastang]

I think that would be fine. You would just feel at the throttle body and your exhaust side of the head for air flow to determine if its a intake valve or exhaust valve. If you feel air coming through your thermostat housing or waterpump you have a blown head gasket. From what I remember if you have 20% or less your good to go. Any higher than 20% you have some problems.
Steve69

An engine built for street is acceptable with up to 20% leakage. A race engine should have no more than 10% leakage.

 

[LONN17]

Thanks

Did the test on Saturday; all went well. Thanks for the help.

Trevor

 

[mrmustangman357]

what is your results?