So I will be doing a compression test for my first time. Doing it for the learning experience and to see how well of my engine may or may not be. I know I have to block the throttle wide open. Since the throttle is connected by a wire and not linkage, how do people recommend blocking it open?

 

You don't block it open. Actually don't touch it physically you can easily damage it by doing so.

Study the proper procedures for the 02/03 in the FSM:
Section EM, page #13

http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/maxima/2002/EM.pdf

If you have any questions after reading that post back

 

Oo ok. Haynes said to block it open. I get it now.

 

Actually, step 8 in the fsm says depress the pedal fully to keep throttle valve wide open. Thats answers my question. Thanks again Tuner.

 

Np dude.

Haynes is useless for most things, just use the FSM, Nissan puts out an incredible FSM and better yet we have easy access to it online and there's places you can download it.

The most important thing to remember is consistancy. Keep things the same when checking all cylinders, becuse the biggest factor is the difference between them, if the variables change (heat, throttle position, battery charge, etc) then so will the readings, and then your readings become inaccurate.

 

Well that brings up another question. I know the engine must be warmed up first. But I need to remove everything to get to 1,3,5. Will the engine be to cool by then?

 

It's a bit of a pain on the A33 because you do have to pull the IM and that does take time.

Warm it up, then, I'd get it ready to come off, then warm it up again. So get rid of all the brackets, covers, etc, then warm it up just before you do fhte final IM removal. That way you can do it quickly.

It's never going to be perfect, just keep it in mind and do your best to keep things equal.