Leak Testing Procedure (On Vehicle)
Tools Required
J 24460-01 Cooling
System Tester
Caution: As long as there is pressure in the cooling system, the temperature
can be considerably higher than the boiling temperature of the solution in
the radiator without causing the solution to boil. Removal of the pressure
cap while the engine is hot and pressure is high will cause the solution
to boil instantaneously -- possibly with explosive force -- spewing
the solution over the engine, fenders and the person removing the cap.
- Ensure that the radiator and the heater hose clamps are properly
positioned and secured.
- Inspect the connections for any leaks. Repair the connections
as required.
- Inspect the connections for any leaks. Repair the connections
as required.
- Remove the radiator fill cap.
- Fill the cooling system to the base of the radiator neck.
- Connect the cooling system
tester J 24460-01
to the
radiator neck.
- Apply normal system operating pressure. Do not exceed 138 kPa
(20 psi).
- The system should hold pressure for two minutes.
• | If a measurable amount of pressure drops in less than two minutes,
check the radiator for leaks. |
Leak Testing (Off Vehicle)
- Remove the radiator from the vehicle. Refer to
Radiator Replacement
.
- Clean the radiator core so that the damaged area can be seen.
- Remove dirt and insects from the radiator fins with a common water
hose, without the nozzle.
- Find the radiator core leaks by adding water to the radiator.
- Install test fittings,
or rubber test caps, in the inlet and outlet necks. Seal the oil cooler fittings
with metal plugs in order to protect the cooler and to keep fluid from coming
out.
- Attach the J 24460-01
to the radiator.
- Gradually apply normal system pressure until 138 kPa (20 psi)
is reached. Do not exceed 138 kPa (20 psi).
- Check the pressure gauge to see if there is pressure loss.
- In order to ensure that there are no small leaks, run water over
the suspect area. Look for any bubbles. Using a mild detergent can be helpful.
- If a large water tank is available, you can submerge the radiator.
You can then check for air bubbles.