Cylinder Head Gasket leak testing
Discussion
I have a possible problem with one of my old cars. It is a V8.
It is using quite a bit of coolant and therefore running a bit hot. Approx .75L over 50-60 miles.
I did a cold engine leak coolant leak test and that showed absolutely no change.
Previously did compression tests, although not repeated recently, which again showed all clear.
There are no obvious drips or leaks when the car is static, either hot or cold.
Being an old car, they do run quite hot and the engine bay is always VERY warm. It is a separate oil tank ( dry sump) so very difficult to detect water. No obvious emulsion.
I know you can get the 'bottle' which goes over the expansion tank and the liquid changes colour if emission gases detected. That cant tell which bank.
Is there an emission tester, with chemicals which can detect from exhaust fumes?
Does anyone have these in Lanarkshire area?
Any other ideas?
The engine was rebuilt 3 years ago down south and new gaskets seals etc
The water pump is very difficult to get at and is 'outside' the block. Very unusual design.
Hope someone can help
Paul
It is using quite a bit of coolant and therefore running a bit hot. Approx .75L over 50-60 miles.
I did a cold engine leak coolant leak test and that showed absolutely no change.
Previously did compression tests, although not repeated recently, which again showed all clear.
There are no obvious drips or leaks when the car is static, either hot or cold.
Being an old car, they do run quite hot and the engine bay is always VERY warm. It is a separate oil tank ( dry sump) so very difficult to detect water. No obvious emulsion.
I know you can get the 'bottle' which goes over the expansion tank and the liquid changes colour if emission gases detected. That cant tell which bank.
Is there an emission tester, with chemicals which can detect from exhaust fumes?
Does anyone have these in Lanarkshire area?
Any other ideas?
The engine was rebuilt 3 years ago down south and new gaskets seals etc
The water pump is very difficult to get at and is 'outside' the block. Very unusual design.
Hope someone can help
Paul
Is there an excessive amount of steam from the exhaust? Does it smell sweet?
I'd try a coolant pressure test when hot. Materials can expand and contract due to different temperatures and leaks can turn up only when it's hot or vice versa. Make sure you're careful, the coolant will be pressurised when opening the expansion tank. I'd try a compression test again too.
You say it's running hot? It shouldn't overheat if there's coolant in the expansion tank, even when it's loosing it. If it's overheating with coolant in the system, that would indicate something else is wrong with the cooling system.
Guessing the coolant is pigmented? Give the outside of the block a good check where the gasket is. Also try to check the water pump and thermostat. The coolant can evaporate on hot engine parts but should leave a trace. Have you noticed a sweet smell while driving?
Most garages should carry the coolant sniff tester you're after.
Hope this helps.
I'd try a coolant pressure test when hot. Materials can expand and contract due to different temperatures and leaks can turn up only when it's hot or vice versa. Make sure you're careful, the coolant will be pressurised when opening the expansion tank. I'd try a compression test again too.
You say it's running hot? It shouldn't overheat if there's coolant in the expansion tank, even when it's loosing it. If it's overheating with coolant in the system, that would indicate something else is wrong with the cooling system.
Guessing the coolant is pigmented? Give the outside of the block a good check where the gasket is. Also try to check the water pump and thermostat. The coolant can evaporate on hot engine parts but should leave a trace. Have you noticed a sweet smell while driving?
Most garages should carry the coolant sniff tester you're after.
Hope this helps.
Edited by Meths on Tuesday 7th May 23:40
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