Cylinder Leakage Test

TESTING PROCEDURE

^ Tools Required
- J 35667-A Cylinder Leakdown Tester

With the use of air pressure, a cylinder leakage test will aid in the diagnosis. The cylinder leakage test may be used in conjunction with the engine compression test, to isolate the cause of leaking cylinders.

1. Remove the battery ground (negative) cable. Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in Service Precautions.
2. Remove the spark plugs. Refer to Powertrain Management.
3. Install the J35667-A.
4. Measure each cylinder on the compression stroke, with both valves closed.
5. Apply air pressure, using the J35667-A. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

IMPORTANT: It may be necessary to hold the crankshaft balancer bolt, to prevent piston movement.

6. Record the cylinder leakage readings for each cylinder.
7. Inspect the four primary areas, to properly diagnose a leaking cylinder.

IMPORTANT:
^ Normal cylinder leakage is from 12% to 18%.
^ Make a note of any cylinder with more leakage than the other cylinders.
^ Any cylinder with 30% leakage or more requires service.

8. If air is heard from the intake or exhaust system, perform the following procedure:
^ Remove the valve rocker arm cover of the suspect cylinder head.
- Ensure that both valves are closed.
- Inspect the cylinder head for a broken valve spring.
^ Remove the suspect cylinder head and inspect. Refer to Cylinder Head Clean and Inspect in Unit Repair.
9. If air is heard from the crankcase system at the crankcase (oil filler tube), perform the following procedure:
^ Remove the piston from the suspect cylinder.
^ Inspect the piston and connecting rod assembly. Refer to Piston, Connecting Rod and Bearings Clean/Inspect in Unit Repair.
^ Inspect the engine block. Refer to Engine Block Clean and Inspect in Unit Repair.
10. If bubbles are found in the radiator, perform the following procedure:
^ Remove both cylinder heads and inspect. Refer to Cylinder Head Clean and Inspect in Unit Repair.
^ Inspect the engine block. Refer to Engine Block Clean and Inspect in Unit Repair.
11. Remove the J 35667-A.
12. Install the spark plugs. Refer to Powertrain Management.
13. Install the battery ground (negative) cable. Refer to Battery.