Pressure Tester Method
Hot, pressurized coolant can cause injury by scalding.
The cooling system being tested should be at normal operating temperature. Recheck the cooling system cold if coolant loss is not located during the warm system examination.
Make sure the system is not under pressure and carefully examine the pressure cap and the cap sealing surface for nicks, crack, paint, dirt and residue.
Inspect the outside of the filler neck. If damaged, seating of the pressure cap valve and tester seal could be affected.
Attach the SVT275 Cooling Pressure Tester (1) available from Mopar® Service Equipment, or an equivalent to the pressurized coolant bottle (2).
Note the maximum pressure specification on the pressure cap.
Operate tester pump to apply pressure to system. Do not exceed the maximum pressure specification on the pressure cap. If hoses enlarge excessively or bulges while testing, replace as necessary.
Observe gauge pointer and determine condition of cooling system according to following criteria:
Holds Steady: If pointer remains steady for two minutes, serious coolant leaks are not present in system. However, there could be an internal engine leak that does not appear with normal system test pressure. If it is certain that engine coolant is being lost and leaks cannot be detected, inspect for internal engine leakage or perform the Internal Engine Leakage Test. Refer to INTERNAL ENGINE LEAKAGE INSPECTION .
Drops Slowly: Indicates a small leak or seepage is occurring. Examine all connections for seepage or slight leakage with a black light or a flashlight. Inspect radiator, hoses, gasket edges and components.
Drops Quickly: Indicates that serious leakage is occurring. Examine system for external leakage. If leaks are not visible, inspect for internal engine leakage.