Cooling System: Testing and Inspection

Checking cooling system








Tools

Coolant: Checking the level and antifreeze content

Note:
^ The coolant filled in at the factory is intended for lifetime cooling and, thus, need not be changed. This coolant must not be mixed with other coolants.
^ Only original Porsche antifreeze should be used when changing or topping up the coolant.





1. Open maintenance cover.

Caution: Danger of scalding!
^ Coolant can be extremely hot and pressurized.
^ Only open the cooling system when it is cold.
^ Wear gloves.





2. Carefully open the cap on the coolant expansion tank. Unscrew the cap in counterclockwise direction.





3. Check antifreeze content. If it is lower than -37°C, it should be corrected accordingly. The coolant level must not drop below the minimum mark.





Note: The following table specifies how much coolant must be replaced by pure antifreeze in order to adjust the freezing point to -37°C.

Checking the antifreeze content of the coolant using a refractometer





Note:
^ The following diagram shows the scale used by Leitenberger.
^ The scale can vary slightly, depending on the manufacturer.
^ The ETHYLENE scale must be used for Porsche antifreeze.





1. Using a pipette, take a sample from the coolant expansion tank.





2. Deposit a few drops on the test surface.





3. Close the light-diffusing lens. A closed film must form.
4. Using the refractometer, view against a very bright light source. A very clear light/dark limit emerges. The point of intersection between this line and the display scale marks the freezing point of the coolant.
5. A freezing point that is too low must be adjusted accordingly.





Note: The following table specifies how much coolant must be replaced by pure antifreeze in order to adjust the freezing point to -37°C.

Checking the cooling system for leaks





1. Check the cooling system for leaks. To do this, apply a test pressure of approximately 1.5 bar using the cooling system test device and check hose connections for leakage. The pressure must not drop.





2. Check the coolant level. A graduated disc with a min and a max marking is located in the opening of the expansion tank. The min level must be covered with coolant.





3. Screw on the cap of the coolant expansion tank again until it locks with an audible click.
4. Close the maintenance flap.
5. Check red later for external dirt. The radiators should not be excessively dirty. If necessary, they can be cleaned using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.