Cooling System: Inspection

To check the radiator for leakage, fill it with engine coolant, and attach the radiator cap tester (A) to the filler neck, and apply pressure. Check the following points:
757 kPa (1.6 kg/cm ² , 23 psi)
NOTE:
- Hose joints and other connections for leakage
- Each portion of radiator for leakage
- Be particularly careful not to deform the filler neck of radiator when installing and removing the tester and after testing.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Radiator Cap Tester
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- When performing this check, be sure to keep the engine stationary and fill radiator with coolant.
- Wipe off check points before applying pressure.
- Use care not to spill coolant when detaching tester from radiator.
Check the radiator cap valve open pressure using radiator cap tester.
NOTE: Rust or dirt on the cap may prevent valve from functioning normally: be sure to clean the cap before testing.

Raise the pressure until the needle of gauge stops and see if the pressure can be retained for five to six seconds. The radiator cap is normal if a pressure above the limit value has been maintained for this period. Replace the cap if it is opened under a pressure less than the service limit value.

Radiator cap valve open pressure

Standard: 73.6 - 103 kPa (0.75 - 1.05 kg/cm ² , 11 - 15 psi)

Service limit: 63.6 kPa (0.649 kg/cm ² , 9.22 psi)

Fig 2: Checking Radiator Cap Valve Open Pressure
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Fig 3: Identifying Radiator Cap Valve Check Points For Deformation
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Start the engine, and then check it does not overheat or it is cooled excessively. If it overheats or it is cooled excessively, check the cooling system.
Ref. to WATER PUMP . Ref. to THERMOSTAT . Ref. to RADIATOR . Ref. to RADIATOR CAP .
Check the radiator fan operates using Subaru Select Monitor, when the coolant temperature exceeds 95°C (203°F). If it does not operate, check the radiator fan system.
Ref. to INSPECTION , Radiator Fan System.