What to do if your coolant system wont hold pressure?
Check to see if your coolant is discolered or has any particles floating around in it. Then check your oil and see if it is over limit or smells like coolant. If so it is probably your head gasket. especially since you have changed the thermostat already.
When do I need to pressure test my cooling system?
Any time you open the cooling system and put it back together, you’ll want to pressure test the cooling system to check for any leaks. This is commonly the next step after performing a cooling system flush. The pressure test can also be done any time a leak is suspected. You’ll use a cooling system pressure tester.
How does pressure testing indicate leaks from the coolant hoses?
A pipe can have a really small hole which only starts leaking when the system is fully hot and therefore at full pressure – it then can release cookant which effectively instantly vapourises and leaves very little trace – except for the scald on your forearm as you get close to it… and that is how I found it – pain is a good educator…
How is a head gasket and coolant system failure tested?
These are all symptom of a head gasket or coolant system failure. This can be tested with a leak down test and / or a coolant pressure test. Note: Contrary to popular believe, an engine produce more energy (and heat at the same time) at high speed (freeway) than at idle or slow speed.
Any time you open the cooling system and put it back together, you’ll want to pressure test the cooling system to check for any leaks. This is commonly the next step after performing a cooling system flush. The pressure test can also be done any time a leak is suspected. You’ll use a cooling system pressure tester.
Check to see if your coolant is discolered or has any particles floating around in it. Then check your oil and see if it is over limit or smells like coolant. If so it is probably your head gasket. especially since you have changed the thermostat already.
What’s the maximum pressure you can put on a cooling system?
Using the cooling system pressure tester, follow manufacturer’s instructions and apply pressure to the cooling system. Warning: The maximum pressure you should apply is the same pressure noted on 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.