How can I test for a coolant leak?
A pressure tester is the quickest way to find these leaks. When pressure testing a cooling system, be sure the vehicle is cool and lacks pressure. Then, remove the coolant expansion tank cap (green arrow). Once the cap is removed, install a pressure tester adapter (green arrow) to the coolant expansion tank.
What happens if coolant leaks from the bottom of a radiator?
The radiator is a pressurized system so if there is a loss of pressure from the cap not fitting properly or if the cap is the incorrect cap for the radiator, the pressure will be lost and a leak could occur. This can be diagnosed with a pressure test of the radiator cap.
How does a pressure test work on a radiator?
How to Pressure Test a Radiator. A radiator or cooling system pressure test is useful when finding a radiator leak or a blown head gasket. This tool attaches to the top or the radiator or coolant reservoir and enables air pressure to be pumped into the system including the engine block, cylinder heads, coolant hoses, heater core and radiator.
Can a pressure test show a head gasket leak?
There’s a test which shows hydrocarbons in the coolant, which is an absolute proof positive way to show a blown head gasket (there’s no other way for hydrocarbons to get into the coolant other than a blown head gasket). A pressure test won’t exhibit an issue if the leak is so slow, there’s no real way to notice it.
Why is my car leaking coolant?
The only two reasons your car could be leaking coolant is due to a part failure or an overfilled system. Coolant expands as it gets hot and flows from your vehicle’s radiator into the overflow tank. If the overflow tank is too full coolant will spill out of that reservoir and may look like a leak.
How do you find a radiator leak?
Check the radiator: Feel the underside of the radiator to see if it’s leaking, and look around your radiator for whitish deposits or rust-colored stains. These indicate old leaks that have dried, but they may not be all that old; water tends to evaporate quickly on a hot radiator.
What is the cooling system pressure?
Cooling system pressures are controlled by the radiator cap. Radiator caps hold pressures between 6-16 PSI for most automotive systems. Most cooling system pressure test kits come complete with everything you will need to pressure test most vehicles.
What is a radiator pressure test?
A radiator or cooling system pressure test is useful when finding a radiator leak or a blown head gasket. This tool attaches to the top or the radiator or coolant reservoir and enables air pressure to be pumped into the system including the engine block, cylinder heads, coolant hoses, heater core and radiator.