Cooling System Leak

COOLING SYSTEM LEAK





With the engine not running, wipe the coolant recovery reservoir neck sealing area clean.

Attach a radiator pressure tester (1) to the coolant recovery reservoir with Special Tool 9107 Pressure Tester Adaptor (2). Apply 104 kPa (15 psi) pressure to the cooling system. If the pressure drops more than 2 psi in 2 minutes inspect all points for external leaks.

All hoses, radiator and heater, should be moved while at 15 psi since some leaks occur while driving due to engine rock, vibration, etc.

If there are no external leaks after the gauge dial shows a drop in pressure, detach the tester. Start engine and run the engine to normal operating temperature in order to open the thermostat and allow the coolant to expand. Reattach the tester. If the needle on the dial fluctuates it indicates a combustion leak, usually a head gasket leak.

WARNING: WITH TOOL IN PLACE PRESSURE BUILDS UP FAST. ANY EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF PRESSURE BUILT UP BY CONTINUOUS ENGINE OPERATION MUST BE RELEASED TO A SAFE PRESSURE POINT. NEVER PERMIT PRESSURE TO EXCEED 138 kPa (20 psi).

If the needle on the dial does not fluctuate, race the engine a few times. If an abnormal amount of coolant or steam is emitted from the tail pipe, it may indicate a faulty head gasket, cracked engine block, or cylinder head.

There may be internal leaks which can be determined by removing the oil dipstick. If water globules appear intermixed with the oil it will indicate an internal leak in the engine. If there is an internal leak, the engine must be disassembled for repair.

CLEANING
Drain the cooling system and refill with clean water. Refer to the drain and fill procedures.

Run the engine with the radiator cap installed until the upper radiator hose is hot. Stop the engine, and drain the water from system. If the water is dirty, refill, run, and drain the system again, until the water runs clear. After flushing, refill the cooling system with a 50/50 mixture of the recommended antifreeze/coolant and distilled water.

INSPECTION
After performing a cleaning/flush procedure, carefully inspect all hoses, clamps and connections for deterioration and leaks. Inspect the radiator and heater core for leaks.