How do you test a cooling system?
Start your engine. When the engine is warm, visually watch the coolant in the cooling system to see if it is circulating. Tip: If the coolant is not circulating, then it may need a new water pump. The water pump test should only be done after you verify whether or not the thermostat is faulty.
How much does it cost to pressure test a cooling system?
Generally, it attaches to the radiator where the radiator cap goes, and you pump it by hand until the pressure on the gauge matches the pressure that is written on top of the radiator cap. Typically on a modern vehicle this pressure is between 13 – 16 psi. Let the vehicle sit with this pressure for 20 – 30 minutes.
Will a coolant pressure test show a blown head gasket?
If you do have a blown head gasket coolant from your cooling system will leak into your combustion chamber and seep past your piston rings into your engine oil. To test your cooling system’s integrity a garage can add a pressure gauge to your cooling system, then pressurize it using compressed air.
How is a pressure tester used to check a cooling system?
Pressure testing is used to check for leaks in the cooling system and to test the radiator cap. The most common pressure tester is the hand-pump device with adaptors to fit different size caps and the filler neck of the radiator. Another style of pressure tester uses shop air connected to the coolant overflow hose.
How do I know if coolant is circulating?
Also, touch the lower radiator hose, after the engine has reached operating temperature. If the lower hose is hot to the touch, coolant is circulating. If the lower hose is not hot, it’s possible the radiator is restricted.
Can AutoZone test a radiator?
You can find the lowest prices on cooling system test kits and other components at AutoZone. Test the cooling system while the engine is cool, and make sure that the vehicle is parked in a dry location where you can identify the location of any leaks.
How do you check compression in a cooling system?
To test your cooling system’s integrity a garage can add a pressure gauge to your cooling system, then pressurize it using compressed air. Once the air source is removed you can watch to see if the pressure in the system holds constant or decreases over the course of a few hours.