To check the compression you need a tester. For a long time Harbor Frieght was selling the diesel compression test kit for about $35.00. I don't know what the price is now, but it is a good kit. Compression reading can be taken with that kit either through the glow plug holes or through the injector holes. I use the glow plug holes. Good compression on the 617 will run from 350 to 425 PSI. Higher is better, but a well balance compression reading is very necessary, will all cylinders reading within 10% of each other. Again, less then 10% is better. So you need the kit, best to have the engine just run, but if you have a problem getting it to run, with a battery, (and even with no key) it is easy to make them crank. Regarding the pilot bearing in the 85, the standard pilot bearing is a little large, but putting the bearing in the freezer overnight will shrink it to where it will slide right in, or at least it is easy to tap it in.

__________________
Junqueyardjim
Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important. C.S. Lewis



1983 Mercedes W123 240D 4 Speed 285,000 on the road with a 617 turbo, beautiful butter yellow, license plate # 83 240D INDIANA

2003 Jaguar Type X, AWD. beautiful, good mileage,
Mom's car, but I won't let her drive it!