Pressure Cap Testing
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Saturn Ion Red Line, 2004 Saturn Ion 3, 2004 Saturn Ion 2, and 2004 Saturn Ion 1. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Tools Required
- SA9141E Cooling System Pressure Tester. See Special Tools and Equipment .
- J 42401 Radiator Cap/Surge Tank Test Adapter. See Special Tools and Equipment .
- J 46143 Intercooler Reservoir Cap Test Adapter. See Special Tools and Equipment .
- Remove the pressure cap.
- Wash the pressure cap sealing surface with water.
- Use SA9141E
(see Special Tools and Equipment )(1) with one of the following attachments (2):
- J 42401 in order to test the radiator cap. See Special Tools and Equipment .
- J 46143 in order to test the intercooler reservoir cap.
- Test the pressure cap for the following conditions:
- Pressure the release when SA9141E exceeds the pressure rating of the pressure cap. See Special Tools and Equipment .
- Maintain the rated pressure for at least 10 seconds.
Note the rate of pressure loss.
- Replace the pressure cap under the following conditions:
- The pressure cap does not release the pressure which exceeds the rated pressure of the cap.
- The pressure cap does not hold the rated pressure.
CAUTION:
To avoid being burned, do not remove the radiator cap or surge tank cap while the engine is hot. The cooling system will release scalding fluid and steam under pressure if radiator cap or surge tank cap is removed while the engine and radiator are still hot.