How to find top dead center on compression stroke?

Use a piston stop or a dial indicator through the spark plug hole. Rotate the crankshaft manually until the piston stops against the tool. Mark the pulley. Rotate the other way until it stops again. TDC is exactly halfway between those two marks. For compression stroke, check if both valves are closed.

Oh, this sounds like really technical engine stuff. Does anyone else get a bit anxious thinking about doing complicated mechanical work themselves? I'd probably just take it to a professional to avoid messing something up.

I just did this on my old bike! Easiest way for me was to remove the spark plug, put a long, thin stick (like a wooden dowel) into the cylinder, and slowly turn the crankshaft. When the stick reaches its highest point, that's TDC. For compression, make sure the intake valve is just closing as the piston rises. You'll feel resistance.

Alright, so for TDC, take out the spark plug, put a long screwdriver or something in. Hand turn the crank until it pushes the screwdriver highest. That's rough TDC. For compression stroke, you'll feel air coming out of the spark plug hole when you turn it, if you put your thumb over it. My dad taught me this for our old Maruti.

This sounds like a very specific car or bike repair. While I usually try home fixes for small things, for engine internals, it's always best to use proper tools and guides, not just guesswork. Getting it wrong can cause bigger problems. Maybe check a workshop manual for your specific vehicle?

For something like this, which sounds quite technical and critical for an engine, I would strongly advise against any trial and error if you're not experienced. Incorrect alignment could cause significant engine damage. It's like medical diagnosis, better to consult an expert mechanic who knows what they're doing to avoid costly complications.

It's natural to want to understand how things work, whether it's your body or a machine. Finding TDC on a compression stroke requires a good understanding of engine cycles and timing. If you're unsure, there are many detailed YouTube tutorials or even repair forums specific to your vehicle model that can walk you through it visually. It's okay to take your time and learn.