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Performance Test

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Kia Spectra5, 2005 Kia Spectra, and 2004 Kia Spectra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Install the manifold gauge set.
  2. Run the engine at 2,000 rpm and set the controls for maximum cooling and high blower speed.
  3. Keep all windows and doors open.
  4. Place a dry-bulb thermometer in the cool air outlet.
  5. Place a wet-dry thermometer close to the inlet of the cooling unit.
  6. Check that the reading on the high pressure gauge is 1,373-1,575 kPa (14-16 kg/cm2 , 199-228 psi). If the reading is too high, pour water on the condenser. If the reading to too low, cover the front of the condenser.
  7. Check the reading on the dry-bulb thermometer at the air inlet at 25-35°C (77-95°F).
  8. Calculate the relative humidity from the psychrometric graph shown in illustration by comparing the wet-and dry-bulb reading at the air inlet.
    Fig 1: Positioning Thermometer & Psychrometric Graph
    G00333061Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.

    HOW TO READ THE GRAPH: 

    After measuring the temperatures of the wet and dry-bulb thermometers at the evaporator air inlet, relative humidity (%) can be obtained. Example: Dry-and wet-bulb temperature at the evaporator air inlet are 25°C (77°F) and 19.5°C (67°F) respectively, the point of intersection of the dotted lines in the graph shown in the following illustration indicates 60%.

    Fig 2: Relative Humidity Graph
    G00333062Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
  9. Measure the dry-bulb temperature at the cool air outlet, and calculate the difference between the inlet dry-bulb and outlet dry-bulb temperatures.
  10. Check that the intersection of the relative humidity and temperature difference falls within the block shown in the illustration. If the intersection is within the block, cooling performance is satisfactory.
    Fig 3: Inlet-To-Outlet Temperature Graph
    G00333063Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.