Pressure Testing - Off-Vehicle

CAUTION: Do not use boil out tanks or vats or other tanks that have been used for copper and brass radiators. The flux, acid, and caustic cleaners remaining in these tanks will attack the aluminum and cause radiator failure. A separate test tank containing clean water is strongly recommended for servicing aluminum-plastic radiators.

1. Install test fittings or rubber test caps in the inlet and outlet necks and seal the oil cooler fittings with metal plugs to protect the cooler and keep the fluid from running out.
2. Attach pressure tester and gradually apply air pressure until 138 kPa (20 psi) is attained. Do not exceed 138 kPa (20 psi). Check pressure gage to see if there is a pressure loss. To ensure that there are no small leaks, run water over the repair area and look for bubbles. (A mild detergent is very helpful.) If a large water tank is available, the radiator can be submerged, and a check for air bubbles can be made.