| Locating Car Leaks |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-310 |
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Q: How can I locate water or fluid leaks in my car? A: (from Trisha Hessinger, Ask DIY Automotive expert) The source of a vehicle fluid-leak is not always easy to find, particularly when you're peering under the hood of some of today's engines with their array of electronics, emissions controls and other auxiliary systems. - If something's leaking onto your garage floor, but you just can't seem to determine where it's coming from, consider using an ultraviolet leak detection-system.
- This remarkably handy troubleshooting device was once used almost exclusively by professional mechanics. More recently they have become more affordable and suitable for use by do-it-yourselfers. The kit comes with everything that's required for performing several leak tests. It contains an ultraviolet light and a series of chemical dyes. Each dye is formulated to work in conjunction with a specific automotive fluid. The UV light hooks directly to the vehicle's battery for its power source. To conduct each test, follow the instructions that come with your kit . In this demonstration, we check for a radiator-coolant leak.
- On a cool engine, remove the radiator cap and add the tracer dye according to the manufacturer's instructions. In this case, it requires adding about half an ounce of antifreeze dye.
- Take the car on a drive for about 15 minutes, giving the coolant and dye a chance to circulate through the engine block and cooling system. Run the heater inside the passenger compartment on full force so that coolant circulates through the heater core and heater hoses also.
- Shut down the engine and let it cool.
- Use the UV light to detect the presence of tracer dye (and hence coolant) in the engine compartment -- around the radiator cap, upper and lower radiator hoses, heater hoses, heater core and other elements of the cooling system. Pay especially close attention to the hose ends, hose connectors, clamps, thermostat housing and other areas where routine wear can lead to leaks.
- In our case, we discovered a leak at the upper radiator hose where it enters the engine block, and also at the end that connects to the radiator itself. There was also a small leak at the upper heater hose where it connects to the heater core. All of these are probably simple fixes requiring no more than checking the hose ends and tightening or replacing hose clamps.
- Similar leak diagnostics can be performed for engine oil leaks as well as the other fluid systems such as brake, transmission and steering fluids. Follow the kit manufacturer 's instructions when conducting any of these tests.
RESOURCES :
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Trouble-Free Car Care
Author: Dan Ramsey
ISBN: 0028635833
Alpha Books
Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896
Saturday Mechanic
Model: 0688178081
Author: Popular Mechanics Staff (Editor)
(2001)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
William Morrow Books / Hearst Books
Website: www.harpercollins.com
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