Engine Coolant Leakage Inspection
ENGINE COOLANT LEAKAGE INSPECTIONWarning
^ Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is running, or when the engine and radiator are hot. Scalding coolant and steam may shoot out and cause serious injury. It may also damage the engine and cooling system.
^ Turn off the engine and wait until it is cool. Even then, be very careful when removing the cap. Wrap a thick cloth around it and slowly turn it counterclockwise to the first stop. Step back while the pressure escapes.
^ When you are sure all the pressure is gone, press down on the cap using the cloth, turn it, and remove it.
1. Inspect the coolant level
2. Remove the cooling system cap.
3. 2.3L: Clean the mounting surface of the cooling system cap and the upper radiator hose
3.0L: Clean the mounting surface of the cooling system cap.
4. Connect the SST (2.3L engine model), commercially available radiator cap tester (3.0L engine model) to the coolant filler port.
L3 = 2.3L / AJ = 3.0L:
5. Apply specified pressure to the radiator.
Caution
^ Applying more than 127 kPa (1.3 kgf/cm2, 18 psi) (2.3L engine model), 107.9 kPa (1.1 kgf/cm2, 15.6 psi) (3.0L engine model), can damage the hoses, fittings, and other components, and cause leaks.
Pressure
2.3L: 127 kPa (1.3 kgf/cm2, 18 psi)
3.0L: 107.9 kPa (1.1 kgf/cm2, 15.6 psi)
6. Verify that the pressure is held.
^ If not as specified, inspect the system for coolant leakage.
- If the coolant leaks from the upper hose attachment part, replace the upper hose and the clamp.
- If the coolant leaks from the main body of the radiator (caulked part), replace the radiator.