|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Acura Radiator
|
Back to Radiator Technical Articles Head Gasket or Combustion Leak Test Procedure (Gasoline Engines Only)
To do the test, add the blue detector fluid to the (block-tester) plastic container according to the directions, and place it onto the radiator filler neck. The squeeze bulb is placed on top of the reservoir and squeezed repeatedly (Some block testers, have a tube that connects to a vacuum line instead of a squeeze bulb). Squeezing the bulb will draw air from the radiator through the test fluid. Block tester fluid is normally blue. Exhaust gases in the cooling system will change the color of the fluid to yellow, indicating a combustion leak. If the fluid remains blue, exhaust gases were not present during the test. The vehicle should be started and at operating temperature before performing the test. Vehicles with head gasket leaks may overheat, and purge hot water and steam out of the radiator. Perform this test, at your own risk, and do not do the test, unless you are experienced and are wearing clothing and equipment to protect you from burns, or injury. For an overheating specialist in your area that is familiar with this procedure go to http://www.narsa.com. Sometimes, engines with a head gasket leak show steam, water or white smoke exiting the exhaust pipe. Other symptoms include coolant in the oil, or oil in the radiator coolant. Use our ONLINE CATALOG to purchase, inquire about pricing, availability, and shipping information for automotive, and truck radiators.
Back to Radiator Technical Articles
|
|
Copyright © 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008 2009 by Arrowhead Radiator Service, Las Vegas, Nevada (Legal Notice) |
One
method is to use a block tester, also known as a combustion leak tester, to
determine if you have exhaust gases in your cooling system. A combustion test
kit can be found at your local NAPA, auto parts store. The part number is
700-1006. The price for this part is less than $50.00. Exhaust gases in your
cooling system can suggest a head gasket leak, a cracked block, or a warped
head, etc. A leaking head gasket can create excessive heat and pressures
exceeding the ability of the radiator’s cooling capacity, and should be repaired
immediately to avoid additional costly repairs. Head gasket leaks are generally
secondary to another problem, such as a clogged or leaking radiator. Make sure
you identify and repair or replace the original problem or the vehicle may
overheat and cause the head gasket to fail again.
