COMBUSTION CHAMBER VOLUME SOLUTION
Measuring combustion chamber volume is an important step when trying to achieve a specific compression ratio in a custom engine build. CNC machining the chambers or even sinking the valve job will increase the chamber size by a couple of cc’s, so you really can’t be sure of the chambers volume without measuring them with a burette. I was using water in the burette for my measurements, but water doesn’t work very well. Water has high retention and is clear which makes it harder to see. What I have found that works very well and is inexpensive is ordinary windshield wiper fluid. The windshield wiper fluid has low retention, it’s color is easy to see and a gallon will last for months! Not to mention it also helps to keep the burette clean.
Ben Hoitink
Hughes Engines
Washington, IL
December, 2016
