Punto (Mk1) How to make and test a pressure tester for the cooling system

Once the cap has set and cured, you can finally test your cars cooling system
A pressure test is used to check for leaks when the engine is cold so you can route around, sometimes tho you cant do a leaks check when its hot as some leaks may seal up with expansion

Simply remove the current cap and fit the tester cap

Using a Pump (electronic or hand) Slowly inflate the system to 1bar, which is approx 14.5psi
Make sure its locked on tight and that there is a clear display of the current pressure

DO NOT GO OVER 15PSI

For me - i was using my ring automative pump which has a 3 digit display
After 4 short burtst of pressure i had was at the required pressure

Now wait, and watch to see if your pressure is leaking out
If you are hearing a hiss, ensure your cap ISN'T leaking, if it is, stem the leak

If - the pressure remains the same for 10minutes, your system is leak free, pressure is been retained

If the reading drops slowly or quickly then you have a leak

I already knew i had a leak on my bottom radiator hose, however the pressure setup was able to tell me quickly if i stemmed my leak

But if you are loosing pressure - check all joins - and fixtures related to the cooling system
So the radiator, joins, hoses, bleed valves, waterpump - thermostat - temperature sensors, and damp floors in the car

IF you are loosing pressure but not getting any leaks, remove 1 spark plug at a time
Does the pressure drop quickly increase? Oh dear... HG time
NO?

Post on the forum!

ENJOY!

Ziggy