How to Pressure Test a Radiator? Step by Step Guide

It is essential to know how to pressure test a radiator for finding a coolant leak. This test also helps in figuring the pressure of your car's cooling system. To accomplish this job, one needs to connect the vehicle's coolant reservoir with the pressure tester. Pump it well to pressurize the system.

Performing a radiator or coolant pressure test is not a hard job to complete. While performing the task, do not forget to check the radiator cap. Apply the adapter to the tester. After this, perform the pumping by using your hand. Reach the level that is indicated on the cap. Once you perform this step, all the present leaks will get noticeable.

Important Things to Observe

Some of the noteworthy things to remember regarding the cooling system are as follows:

● The radiator flush of your vehicle must be performed about every 100,000 miles. You must also accomplish this job if you find your coolant dirty upon inspection.

● Avoid opening your car’s cooling system while the engine is hot. Open it when it’s easy for you to touch it.

● The overheating problem with your car’s engine may not get solved by repairing a leak. If you face such a situation, seek professional help.

One must check all the above-listed points to manage things well. Most people also have this question: how much does this entire job cost? Most of the available kits on online stores cost around $45.00 to $75.00. The kit includes adapters as well. If you are not familiar with the procedure, it means you need professional help. For such a case, the cost will be around $95.00 to $140.00.

How to Pressure Test a Radiator (Steps)

How to pressure test a cooling system? Well, this section contains a complete guide about it. Before starting the process, make sure there is no pressure in the cooling scheme. After this, perform the below-listed steps one by one.

Step 1: Remove the Cap of the Radiator

Once you can touch a radiator hose, the next job is to remove the radiator cap properly. By doing this, you will be able to attach the pressure tester.

Step 2: Prepare the Tester

The next step is to open the tester's case and properly check the unit. Make sure everything is in good condition and is working properly. The gauge must be seen easily, and it should be free from leaks.

In some cases, there is no need to use an adapter to connect the pressure tester to your car's radiator. In other cases, you need it.

Step 3: Properly Tight Things

After this, constrict the coolant pressure tester properly to the adapter. Push it down entirely and twirl the connector in the clockwise direction until it locks appropriately.

Step 4: Check Pressure Level on the Radiator

Before applying pressure, do not forget to check the cap and radiator pressure. There you will see some pressure limit. Do not exceed that level.

Step 5: Apply the Pressure

Once you check the limit, the next job is to apply it to the cooling system. It usually measures between 13 to 16 psi. This will help you identify the coolant leaks in your vehicle.

If your car's system does not hold the pressure completely, then there are many reasons behind this. Maybe there is a coolant leak somewhere. Another reason might be that your pressure tester is not properly attached. To overcome this issue, recheck everything.

Step 6: Take away the Pressure Tester

After checking everything in detail, the next thing is to remove the pressure tester. For that, twirl the connector anticlockwise to unlock it. If you hear a sound of pressure release, it is ready to be removed.

FAQ’s

1.) How much pressure is needed to test a radiator?

It usually ranges between 13 – 16 psi. You can see this amount on top of the radiator cap you use for your vehicle. Try to follow the mentioned limit to avoid any problems later on.

2.) How can I test my radiator at home?

If you want to test your car’s radiator for blockages, you must follow the below-listed steps.

● First of all, remove the cap. Ensure the engine is cold when performing this step; otherwise, it will burn your fingers.

● After this, start the engine and run it for 3 to 5 minutes.

● The following job is to look inside the radiator using the flashlight and check if any leak or fluid is flowing from somewhere. If you don't observe any movement in the solution, it's a clear indication of a blockage.

One can efficiently perform these steps and test the radiator at home without any difficulty.

3.) How do you bench test a radiator?

For performing the bench test, dip the radiator in a tub. After this, wait for the air bubbles to float up. If you see any bubbles, there are leaks in the radiator.

4.) What is normal radiator pressure?

The normal radiator pressure is 16 PSI, so your car's engine coolant can get significantly hotter. However, in case the cooling system of your car lacks pressure, then the coolant will boil off.

5.) How much does it cost to pressure test a radiator?

It usually costs around $26 to $33. This pricing figure does not involve labor costs. With labor costs, the entire process will cost almost $95.00 to $140.00.

6.) Can a radiator cap hold too much pressure?

No, too much pressure is not suitable for your car’s cooling system. The excess amount of pressure can cause leakage.

Conclusion

If you want to test the pressure of your car's cooling system or need to find the coolant leaks, then this article is for you. By performing the pressure test, one can easily examine these issues in their vehicle. This article contains a complete step-by-step guide about how to pressure test a radiator. Check the information above for a detailed understanding.