Problems with an engine's ability to breathe and seal can cause all sorts of drivability concerns. Add in the technology of variable valve timing and selective cylinder management, multiple cams and cam drives, and you can quickly see where using traditional methods of inspection will likely result in a lot of time spent looking for a maybe. There are options, however, if you own a scope and a few scope accessories like a high amp clamp, pressure sensors and/or pressure transducers. These tools allow you to "see" inside without tearing everything apart. And that saves you time and frustration, especially if the problem is intermittent.

In our second Motor Age/TST webcast of 2013, we share tips on how to perform scope tests on the engine, including relative compression testing and in-cylinder pressure testing. We even have a guest expert, Automotive Test Solution's Bernie Thompson, on hand! Check it out, and be sure to sign up for the next webcast!

See more from Bernie and ATS here