Coolant: Testing and Inspection

Coolant Concentration Testing

Tools Required
* J 26568 Coolant Tester Centigrade
* J 23688 Coolant Tester Fahrenheit

Inspect the color, the texture and the odor of the coolant in order to detect any contamination.

The following materials may cause contamination:

* Fuel
* Engine oil
* Automatic transmission fluid

Repair any contamination in order to prevent internal damage to the engine.

Use the J 26568 or the J 23688 in order to inspect the antifreeze protection of the coolant.




* Use the following steps in order to clean the J 26568 or the J 23688 before each use:

1. Open the plastic cover on the slanted end of the J 26568 or the J 23688 .
This action will expose the measuring window and the bottom of the plastic cover.
2. Use a tissue or a soft clean cloth in order to wipe the surface dry.
3. Close the plastic cover.

* Ensure that the hydrometer markings are correct.
* Unless J 26568 or the J 23688 have the provision for temperature correction, test the coolant at the temperature at which the J 26568 or the J 23688 is calibrated. If the coolant is warmer or cooler than this temperature, the reading may be incorrect.





Important:
* Do not open the plastic cover during readings. Coolant evaporation may change the readings.

* If the reading is unclear, the measuring surface was not correctly cleaned. Wipe the surface dry and test the coolant again.


Follow the manufacturer's directions in order to use the J 26568 or the J 23688 .

Surge Tank Cap

Inspect the cap for proper opening and closing pressures.

This action will ensure the safe, efficient operation of the cooling system. A pressure cap that can not maintain pressure will lower the boiling point of the engine coolant. A lower engine coolant boiling point will cause the engine cooling system to operate at a higher than normal temperature.

If the cap is faulty, replace the cap. Refer to Cooling System Leak Testing Component Tests and General Diagnostics.