Ask Away! with Jeff Smith: Does 40% Leakdown Test Results Require New Piston Rings?
I just bought a used 5.3L LS engine out of the junkyard and after we got the engine back to the shop and mounted it on an engine stand, we decided to do a leakdown test. We checked all eight cylinders and the average was close to 40 percent. We removed the oil filler cap
Mailbag: What is Compression and How Does it Relate to Octane?
Got questions? We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we discuss the basics of compression and how it relates to your fuel octane. T.C. • Dayton, TX Q: I have a 1993 Chevy Silverado Z71 and according to the repair manual, my small block’s compression is 8.2:1. What
Mailbag: How to Rejuvenate a Big Block Chevy
Got questions? We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we help a reader overhaul his Rat motor for street/strip performance. G.T. • Keaau, HI Q: I have 1973 454 big block Chevy. It has 8.5:1 compression, stock oval port cylinder heads, a Crane PowerMax camshaft, an Edelbrock Performer
Monday Mailbag: Increasing Horsepower, Gas Mileage & Compression
Got questions? We’ve got the answers—Mondays when the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we’re talking budget horsepower and compression ratio. From: P.W. • Rosholt, WI Q: I have a 1984 Chevy Z28 Camaro with an HO 305 engine and five-speed transmission. I want to increase horsepower and gas mileage




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