OIL LEAK DETECTION BLACK LIGHT INFORMATION
VEHICLES AFFECTED: All Passenger Cars and L.D. Trucks
Black Light Process Check
This method uses a flourescent dye added to the engine oil. One ounce of dye should be circulated in the engine oil for a minumum of five (5) minutes. In some cases, it may be necessary to drive the car before the dye will begin to show. Prior to the black light inspection of the engine, the dipstick should be held under the black light to assure that the dye has mixed thoroughly with the engine oil. Oil with dye additive will be a bright yellow when exposed to the black light. Oil without dye additive will show a light purple in colour. It is not necessary to clean the engine prior to inspection. The difference between oil leaking with the dye additive versus old oil is quite evident.
Component Removal
To properly detect an oil leak at the rear of an engine, it is necessary to remove the transmission. This process, in conjunction with the black light, will eliminate all guesswork in regard to rear oil leaks.
Extended engine running time with dye in the oil can sometimes spread the dye over a large area which may cause actual leak detection to be difficult. If this occurs, it will be necessary to clean the engine to accurately diagnose the oil leak.
Flourescent dye for this purpose can be obtained from Kent-Moore Canada Inc.
General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
