How to ground plugs

[dajohnson53]

As I understand it, when checking compression and spark (using an adjustable spark tester), all plugs should be removed and grounded. Removed to get maximum RPMs out of the starter, grounded so as to not screw up the ignition system.

What is the easiest and most efficient way to ground the plugs?

For these tests, is it good enough to just disable the ignition, for example, by pulling the dead man kill switch on the remote control box?

What are the actual possible consequenses if all plugs are not grounded properly when the engine spins?

This is probably such a basic question that it goes without saying, but I have never had this completely explained to me.

 

[JB]

Re: How to ground plugs

I find it best to leave the key OFF and use a jumper or remote starter switch to turn her over, DAJ.

 

[dajohnson53]

Re: How to ground plugs

I find it best to leave the key OFF and use a jumper or remote starter switch to turn her over, DAJ.

Thanks for your advice and patience. Just to verify my understanding. If I pull all 6 plugs to test compression and jumper the starter with key off, the engine will spin freely, but no power will be going to the plug wires, therefore no chance of spark, and no need to ground the plug wires to avoid damaging ignition system?

Second - Is this the sort of thing you'd use?http://www.lislecorp.com/tool_detail.cfm?detail=223

Finally, what if I want to test the spark. I obviously need current to the plug wires. Do I need to pull all 6 plugs, grounding 5 plug wires and testing the 6th? I've tested spark on a 2 cylinder engine, but I just haven't done it on the V6 and can't immediately envision how to ground 5 plug wires so I could test the 6th. Or am I mistaken that they'd have to be grounded?

Thanks again for your patience if this should be obvious or is spelled out somewhere that I should know of.

 

[brielly]

Re: How to ground plugs

I bought some small alligator clips and crimped them on some 10 ga. wire. I clipped one side to the inside of the plug wires and clipped the other end wherever i could on the block to ground them.

 

[dajohnson53]

Re: How to ground plugs

I bought some small alligator clips and crimped them on some 10 ga. wire. I clipped one side to the inside of the plug wires and clipped the other end wherever i could on the block to ground them.

See, that's why it's a little embarrassing for me to ask these sort of questions - such and easy solution. I can do alligator clips! Thanks.