Coolant System Pressure Test: Notes
WARNING:
Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.
- Turn the engine OFF.
- Remove the pressure relief cap. Fill the radiator with coolant if needed.
- Fit the Radiator/Heater Core Pressure Tester from the Pressure Test Kit to the radiator fill neck.
- Slowly depress the plunger of the pressure test pump to the maximum allowed pressure and hold for 2 minutes. If the pressure drops within this time, inspect for leaks and repair as necessary.
- If no leaks are found and the pressure drops, the leak may be internal to the radiator transmission cooler. Inspect the coolant for transmission fluid and the transmission fluid for coolant. Repair as necessary.
- If there is no contamination of the coolant or transmission fluid, the leak may be internal to the engine. Inspect the coolant for engine oil and the engine oil for coolant. Refer to ENGINE SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION to diagnose the engine.
NOTE:
Do not pressurize the cooling system beyond the maximum pressure listed in the specifications table, or cooling system components can be damaged.
NOTE:
If the plunger of the pressure tester is depressed too fast, an erroneous pressure reading will result.