Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Hydrostatic Locked Engine

When an engine is suspected of hydrostatic lock (regardless of what caused the problem), follow the steps below.
1. Perform the Fuel Pressure Release Procedure.
2. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
3. Inspect air cleaner, induction system, and intake manifold to ensure system is dry and clear of foreign material.
4. Place a shop towel around the spark plugs or fuel injectors (diesel engine) to catch any fluid that may possibly be under pressure in the cylinder head. Remove the spark plugs or fuel injectors (diesel engine).

CAUTION: DO NOT use the starter motor to rotate the crankshaft. Severe damage could occur.

5. With all spark plugs and injectors (diesel engine) removed, rotate the crankshaft using a breaker bar and socket.
6. Identify the fluid in the cylinders (coolant, fuel, oil, etc.).
7. Be sure all fluid has been removed from the cylinders.
8. Repair engine or components as necessary to prevent this problem from occurring again.
9. Squirt engine oil into the cylinders to lubricate the walls. This will prevent damage on restart.
10. Install new spark plugs or fuel injectors (diesel engine). Tighten the spark plugs to 41 Nm (30 ft. lbs.) torque. Tighten the fuel injector nuts to 60 Nm (44 ft. lbs.) torque.
11. Drain engine oil. Remove and discard the oil filter.
12. Install the drain plug. Tighten the plug to 34 Nm (25 ft. lbs.) torque.
13. Install a new oil filter.
14. Fill engine crankcase with the specified amount and grade of oil.
15. Connect the negative cable to the battery.
16. Start the engine and check for any leaks.