How to hook up a remote starter switch to check compression?

**jamesejam** · 09-15-2009, 08:18 PM

I'm trying to check the compression by myself and I can't figure out how to hook up the remote starter switch. I have a 91 c1500 350 V8. Any help would be appreciated.

**SimpleGreen** · 09-15-2009, 08:24 PM

Most auto parts stores carry remote start switches for this purpose. Fairly cheap. Otherwise you just need a cheap little push button switch (one you have to hold down to activate) and two pieces of wire. Run one to the hot side of the battery and the other to the solenoid on the starter.

When I checked compression on my truck I simply leaned over the fender, screwed the fitting into the spark plug hole and then leaned in the window and turned the engine over a couple times.

**Underpowered** · 09-15-2009, 08:28 PM

i just used a compression tester that holds the number. it will hold the high reading till pressure is released, never used a remote started switch.

**GreaseDog** · 09-15-2009, 08:39 PM

a pressure rated check valve, and a push button bleeder valve (schraeder valve would work) and a gauge are all you really need to build a compression tester, along with the hose and the spark plug adapter of course.

**K1500Tech** · 09-15-2009, 08:41 PM

Tape your guage to the windshield.

**jamesejam** · 09-15-2009, 08:48 PM

I've got a compression tester that has rubber on the end, so I have to hold it up to the cylinder to get the compression reading. I've also got a remote starter switch. I just need to know how to hook up the starter switch. Do I have to crawl under the truck to get to the solenoid?

**Underpowered** · 09-15-2009, 08:54 PM

yupp, solenoid is mounted to the starter.

**oldred95** · 09-15-2009, 10:11 PM

Starting in 96 you can just jump across terminals 87 and 30 at the starter relay in the underhood fuse block and crank it over. My 95 doesn't have a relay. If it does I've never seen it, its not on the firewall or fuse block, IIRC it comes straight off the ignition switch which is completely stupid. It seems like the 87-94s did have a starter relay on the firewall though. If so you can jump across 87 and 30 on it but like said, just get the right gauge setup and crank it over with the key. A compression tester set is only like 10-15 bucks from Harbor Freight. Its even got the adapter for changing valve seals using compressed air in the cylinder.

**xch3no2** · 09-15-2009, 10:30 PM

To answer Your question one gator clip goes on small terminal block side of starter solenoid the other on battery (large) terminal of solenoid. Push de button.