Pressure Testing Cooling Systems
This is another in my series of ‘The Basics’. If you run into an overheat issue on your vehicle, and you suspect a leak, this is the best way to find it. Putting pressure on the system will cause it to leak and reveal the leaks location in the process. Just a couple of things to remember. Make sure the coolant is topped off before you start the test. If not, then it will take a lot longer to build up pressure. Also, if you have an overheat condition, start by bleeding the air out of the cooling system. In my experience, this is the most common cause of an overheat. The next step is to figure out how the air got there in the first place. Here’s some useful links for you that I mentioned in the video.
Here’s some links for you.
Radiator Replacement Video:
How To Bleed a Cooling System:
Diagnosing an Overheat Condition:
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Article on Diagnosing Overheats:
ETCG FAQ page: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq
Tools:
Pressure Tester (expensive):
Mityvac MV4530 Cooling System Pressure Test Kit
The MITMV4530 Cooling System Pressure Test Kit quickly reveals external cooling system leaks, and detects internal leaks caused by a blown head gasket, or cracked block or head. The kit comes complete with a high-quality pressure pump and four (4) adapters for connecting to the cooling systems of most US and Asian manufactured cars and light trucks.
Pressure Tester (less expensive):
Mityvac MV4560 Radiator / Cooling System Pressure Test Kit
Economical, accurate and simple method to find common causes of overheating Pinpoints external leaks caused by loose clamps or leaky hoses, connectors, water pumps or radiators Diagnoses internal leaks caused by a blown head gasket or damaged block or head
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Discussion about this video: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/…/49461-pressure-testing-cooling-systems#87689
ETCG
