FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Radiator Cap: Testing and Inspection

Radiator Cap Test
1. Remove the radiator cap (A). Wet the seal with engine coolant, then install it on a commercially available pressure tester (B).





2. Apply a pressure of 93 - 123 kPa (0.95 - 1.25 kgf/cm2, 14 - 18 psi).
3. Check for a drop in pressure.
4. If the pressure drops, replace the cap.

Radiator Test
1. Wait until the engine is cool, then carefully remove the radiator cap, and fill the radiator with engine coolant to the top of the filler neck.
2. Attach a commercially available pressure tester (A) to the radiator, and apply a pressure of 93 - 123 kPa (0.95 - 1.25 kgf/cm2, 14 - 18 psi).





3. Inspect for engine coolant leaks, and a drop in pressure.
4. Remove the tester, then reinstall the radiator cap.
5. Check for engine oil in the coolant and/or coolant in the engine oil.