Cooling System: Inspection

Pressure: 

Non-turbo model 

157 kPa (1.6 kg/cm ²  , 23 psi) 

Turbo model 

122 kPa (1.2 kg/cm ²  , 18 psi) 

Check the following points:

• Leak from radiator
• Hose joints and other connections for leakage
  CAUTION:

  • For Turbo model, inspection must be carried out at the side of coolant filler tank, not at the side of radiator.
  • Be particularly careful not to deform the filler neck of radiator when installing and removing the tester and after testing.
  • When performing this check, be sure to keep the engine stationary and fill radiator with coolant.
  • Wipe off check points before applying pressure.
  • Use care not to spill coolant when detaching tester from radiator.
• Non-turbo model
  Fig 1: Identifying Radiator For Leakage Using Radiator Cap Tester (Non-Turbo Model)

  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
• Turbo model
  Fig 2: Identifying Radiator For Leakage Using Radiator Cap Tester (Turbo Model)

  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Raise the pressure until the needle of gauge stops and see if the pressure can be retained for five to six seconds. The radiator cap is normal if a pressure above the service limit value has been maintained for this period.

Non-turbo model radiator side and turbo model coolant filler tank side 

Specification: 

93 - 123 kPa (0.95 - 1.25 kg/cm ²  , 14 - 18 psi) 

Service limit pressure: 

83 kPa (0.85 kg/cm ²  , 12 psi) 

Radiator side on turbo models 

Specification: 

122 - 152 kPa (1.24 - 1.55 kg/cm ²  , 18 - 22 psi) 

Service limit pressure: 

112 kPa (1.14 kg/cm ²  , 16 psi) 

Fig 3: Checking Radiator Cap Valve Open Pressure Using Radiator Cap Tester

Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Fig 4: Identifying Checking Points For Deformation, Damage And Rust

Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.