2008 V Star 1100 Spark Plug Removal and Compression Test

05-31-15 2008 V Star Spark Plug Removal and Compression Test.
Checking compression on my V Star using a cheap (junk) compression tester from Harbor Freight. I could feel an air leak in the quick disconnect when I was using it. Use this video for entertainment purposes only. I am not a cycle mechanic and my way is probably not the right way.

[@OnTheEdgeNow]

If I am understanding your question right the crush washer on the plug should compress between the plug and the head.

[@firbyd]

You could add another extension or use a longer one to get away from banging your tank, and also there are cold and hot compression tests, otherwise good vid, thanks..

[@michaelalbro9927]

Hi, I just recently purchased a 2008 V Star 1100. Thanks for all your videos on this bike as they have helped. I noticed you did a video a few years back on the hyper-charger although I do not see it on your bike. What was the reason for removal? The reason I ask is I've contemplated putting one on my bike. Thanks.

[@OnTheEdgeNow]

+Michael Albro I did not notice enough of a horse power gain. Switching to less restrictive exhaust made the bike too loud on long trips. I also thought it was a pain to clean and lube the air filter. It was a fun project but not quite what I had hoped for.

[@georgesegovia5132]

What size spark plug socket did you use I have a 5/8 but it won't fit over the hex part of the spark plug

[@firbyd]

My plugs are 13/16ths of an inch, and that pertains to NGK BPR7ES which is factory recommend and what I use in my 2002 xvs 1100 classic.

[@hamidabdanan7795]

Thanks for the video. Unrelated question, where did you buy your crash bar from?

[@OnTheEdgeNow]

I bought it on eBay. At the time it was $79.00 and lasted for 8 years. Looked like new when I sold the bike. last year.

[@concrete981]

90 psi on an '06. no way. lot of that harbor freight tools are junk. hope you returned it and got your money back. if your bike runs at all decent it should read around 140....wish my plugs were that clean.

[@crazee6821]

I would like to hear some opinions on the Vstar 1100 starter clutch update kit .. the factory kit $475 VS. After Market $185 ... anyone had that issue yet ?!? Mine clunks really loud or knocks when starting sometime... half the time I get a smooth normal start ! I’m really dreading the job to update it but it’s gotta be done !

[@joracer1]

I always check after engine is hot, 130psi min...

[@nzafiris]

Thanks for the vid! I just changed the plugs on my vstar and, am I crazy or do the plugs not seat all the way against the head? Meaning, the bolt part of the plug does not compress that washer against the head because it doesn't go all the way down by the time it's tight. Doesn't that cause compression leaks? On mine there's about an inch of space between the bolt and the head itself, and in this vid yours looks similar. So strange!

[@alanharper2240]

What is the gap on the spark plug supposed to be for an 1100

[@scorpioalarmy]

Thanks for the video, nice tools for removing spark plug so is it possible to send me info where can i buy it ? Thanks, best regards Pavel from Czech republic

[@OnTheEdgeNow]

Most of the tools I have come from Sears, Craftsman brand. I do buy some stuff at Harbor Freight but the quality isn't the best.

[@crazee6821]

Did you open your throttle all the way when you performed the test ??

[@OnTheEdgeNow]

No, I kept it closed.

[@michaelangelod5008]

@@OnTheEdgeNow that's wrong

[@OnTheEdgeNow]

@@michaelangelod5008
Yes it is. So is using a leaky compression tester.

[@vstar7196]

Good video. Cuts through all of the B.S. that you see in other videos by idiots who just want an excuse to post.

[@OnTheEdgeNow]

I noticed that too. A lot of videos talk for a long time but you only get about 10% useful information.