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

Component Tests and General Diagnostics

WARNING:
Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot.
Serious burns could occur from high pressure fluid escaping from the radiator.
Wrap a thick cloth around the cap. Slowly turn it a quarter turn to allow built-up pressure to escape. Carefully remove the cap by turning it all the way.


CHECKING COOLING SYSTEM HOSES
Check hoses for the following:
- Improper attachment
- Leaks
- Cracks
- Damage
- Chafing
- Deterioration

Water Hose Drawing:





CHECKING COOLING SYSTEM FOR LEAKS





To check for leakage, apply pressure to the cooling system with a tester.

Testing pressure: 157 kPa (1.6 kg/cm2, 23 psi)

CAUTION: Higher pressure than specified may cause radiator damage.

CHECKING RADIATOR CAP








To check radiator cap, apply pressure to cap with a tester.

Radiator cap relief pressure:
Standard: 78 - 98 kPa (0.8 - 1.0 kg/cm2, 11 - 14 psi)
Limit: 59 - 98 kPa (0.6 - 1.0 kg/cm2, 9 - 14 psi)


Pull the negative pressure valve to open it. Check that it closes completely when released.