Pressure Cap Testing
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Saturn Ion Red Line, 2005 Saturn Ion 3, 2005 Saturn Ion 2, and 2005 Saturn Ion 1. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Tools Required
- SA9141E Cooling System Pressure Tester. See Special Tools .
- J 42401 Radiator Cap/Surge Tank Test Adapter. See Special Tools .
- J 46143 Intercooler Reservoir Cap Test Adapter
- Remove the pressure cap.
- Wash the pressure cap sealing surface with water.
- Use SA9141E
(1) with one of the following attachments (2). See Special Tools .
- J 42401 in order to test the radiator cap. See Special Tools .
- J 46143 in order to test the intercooler reservoir cap
- Test the pressure cap for the following conditions:
- Pressure the release when SA9141E exceeds the pressure rating of the pressure cap. See Special Tools .
- Maintain the rated pressure for at least 10 seconds.
Note the rate of pressure loss.
- Replace the pressure cap under the following conditions:
- The pressure cap does not release the pressure which exceeds the rated pressure of the cap.
- The pressure cap does not hold the rated pressure.
CAUTION:
To avoid being burned, do not remove the radiator cap or surge tank cap while the engine is hot. The cooling system will release scalding fluid and steam under pressure if radiator cap or surge tank cap is removed while the engine and radiator are still hot.