1. The radiator cap must be removed after the cooling system has cooled
2. The correct size coolant adapter is chosen and then installed onto the radiator
3. The pressure tester is installed onto the adapter with the release valve in the hold position. The connection should be tightened securely to prevent the pressure from leaking off when the test is being
4. After the pressure tester is installed onto the radiator, the test pressure must be chosen. It should not exceed the pressure rating on the radiator cap, which is typically around 14 to 16
5. Here, 15 psi of pressure has been applied to the pressure tester using a hand-style pump. This pressure should be held on the system for several minutes to see if it leaks off. The cooling system should be checked for leaks while the pressure is applied with the pressure
6. Cooling system pressure testers also have a cap adapter that allows the cap to be tested with the pressure
7. The radiator cap is installed onto the cap adapter to prepare for using the cooling system pressure tester to see if the cap will hold the correct
8. The cooling system pressure tester is installed onto the cap adapter, which will allow the cap to be
9. The tightness of the cap as well as the pressure tester should be checked prior to adding pressure to the
10. The pump on the cooling system tester is activated to apply the specified pressure to the cap. The cap should hold the rated pressure in order to pass the
A black light and special yellow glasses are needed to assist in finding leaks using coolant dye. The glasses allow the dye to be much more visible during the leak
A combustion leak tester kit is useful when a blown head gasket or cracked cylinder head is uspected. This kit uses a chemical that changes colors if it is exposed to combustion
The engine temperature can be monitored using the temperature gauge in the instrument cluster. The temperature should rise to about 180 to 200°F within 10 minutes of engine
Adding a special dye to the cooling system is a wise practice when the leak is difficult to locate. The engine should be operated for a few minutes in order to thoroughly mix the dye with the
The vessel on the left is filled with the blue-color test fluid and is then installed onto the radiator neck with the engine running. If the engine has combustion gasses in the coolant, the fluid will change
A scan tool can be used to monitor the engine temperature. A thermostat that is operating correctly will allow the engine to reach 180 to 200°F within 10 minutes of
