Locating the Leak

GENERAL INFORMATION
Most fluid leaks can be located and repaired by visually finding the leak and replacing or repairing the necessary parts. On some occasions, a fluid leak may be difficult to locate or repair. The following procedures may help in locating and repairing most leaks.

LOCATING THE LEAK
1. Identify the fluid. Determine whether it is engine oil, automatic transaxle fluid, power steering fluid, etc.
2. To find where the fluid is leaking from, run the vehicle 24 kilometers (15 miles) minimum to reach normal operating temperature, then park the vehicle over a large sheet of paper. After a few minutes, you should be able to find the approximate location of the leak by the drippings on the paper.
3. Visually check around the suspected component. Check around all gasket mating surfaces for leaks. A mirror is useful for finding leaks in areas that are hard to reach.
4. If a leak still cannot be found, it may be necessary to clean the suspected area with a degreaser, steam or spray solvent. Clean the area well, then dry the area. Operate the vehicle for several miles at normal operating temperature and varying speeds. After operating the vehicle, visually inspect the suspected component. If you still cannot find the leak, try using the powder or black light and dye method.

POWDER METHOD
1. Clean the suspected area.
2. Apply an aerosol-type powder (such as white foot powder) to the suspected area.
3. Operate the vehicle under normal operating conditions.
4. Visually inspect the suspected component. You should be able to trace the leak path over the white foot powder surface to the source.

BLACK LIGHT AND DYE METHOD
^ Tool Required:
- J 28428-E High Intensity Black Light

NOTE: A dye and black light kit is available for finding leaks. Refer to the manufacturer's directions when using the kit.

1. Pour specified amount of dye into leaking component.
2. Operate the vehicle under normal operating conditions as directed in the kit.
3. Direct the light toward the suspected area. The dyed fluid will appear as a brightly colored path leading to the source.
- See kit directions for the color of the fluid and dye mix.