Official Chrysler lawn & garden engine parts

Checking compression on a Chrysler lawn and garden equipment engine

Connect the compression gauge to the cylinder through the spark plug hole. Zero the compression gauge. Briefly turn the key to the start position so the starter motor spins the engine or pull the starter rope to spin the engine.

Check the compression reading. Most engines should measure over 40 psi of compression. Many engines produce more than 80 psi.

If cylinder compression is less than 40 psi, the piston isn't compressing air inside the cylinder. Keep in mind that a low compression reading shows you that a compression problem exists, but doesn't reveal the cause. You might need to adjust the valves or replace the piston rings. A damaged cylinder wall can also prevent the piston from compressing air inside the cylinder.

To accurately analyze a compression problem, have a service technician do a leak-down test on the engine. The technician will use an air compressor and special tools to find where the air leaks. Once the technician finds the cause of the compression problem and fixes it, you can get back to performing your lawn and garden chores.

Top-selling Chrysler lawn and garden equipment engine parts

• Starter motor. The starter motor spins the flywheel to start the engine when you turn the key to the start position.
• Carburetor rebuild kit. The carburetor rebuild kit includes gaskets, seals, a hinge pin and other components to refurbish the carburetor.
• Alternator. The alternator is a set of wire coils under the flywheel of the engine that generates electricity to power the tractor when it's running. The alternator also recharges the battery while the engine runs.
• Battery. On electric start engines, the battery provides the 12 volts needed to power the starter.
• Fuel pump. The fuel pump moves fuel from the fuel tank to the engine.