Special Tools

J 35667-A Cylinder Head Leakdown Tester

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.

Note: A leakage test may be performed in order to measure cylinder/combustion chamber leakage. High leakage may indicate one or more of the following:

Warning: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

1. Disconnect the battery ground negative cable.
2. Remove the spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Replacement.
3. Rotate the crankshaft to place the piston in the cylinder being tested at Top Dead Center (TDC) of the compression stroke.
4. Install the J 35667-A tester or equivalent.

Note: It may be necessary to hold the crankshaft balancer bolt to prevent the engine from rotating.

5. Apply shop air pressure to the J 35667-A tester and adjust according to the manufacturers instructions.
6. Record the cylinder leakage value. Cylinder leakage that exceeds 25 percent is considered excessive and may require component service. In excessive leakage situations, inspect for the following conditions:

•	Air leakage sounds at the throttle body or air inlet hose that may indicate a worn or burnt intake valve or a broken valve spring.

•	Air leakage sounds at the exhaust system tailpipe that may indicate a worn or burnt exhaust valve or a broken valve spring.

•	Air leakage sounds from the crankcase, oil level indicator tube, or oil fill tube that may indicate worn piston rings, a damaged piston, a worn or scored cylinder bore, a damaged engine block or a damaged cylinder head.

•	Air bubbles in the cooling system may indicate a damaged cylinder head or a damaged cylinder head gasket.

7. Perform the leakage test on the remaining cylinders and record the values.