Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.
Hosted by mcallihan.com

Pressure Method

The crankcase can be pressurized to locate oil leaks. The following materials are required to fabricate the tool to be used:
- air supply and air hose.
- air pressure gauge that registers pressure in 4 kPa (1.0 psi) increments.
- air line shutoff valve.
- appropriate fittings to attach above parts to oil fill, crankcase ventilation grommet and crankcase ventilation tube.
- appropriate plugs to seal any openings leading to crankcase.
- a solution of liquid detergent and water applied with a suitable applicator such as a squirt bottle or brush.

Fabricate the air supply hose to include the air line shutoff valve and the appropriate adapter to permit the air to enter the engine through the crankcase ventilation tube. Fabricate the air pressure gauge to a suitable adapter for installation on the engine at the oil fill opening.

Testing Procedure
1. Open air supply valve until pressure gauge maintains 34 kPa (5 psi).
2. Inspect sealed and / or gasketed areas for leaks by applying snoop leak detector or a solution of liquid detergent and water over areas for formation of bubbles which indicates leakage.