Cylinder Leakage Test

Cylinder Leakage Test

Special Tools

J-35667-A - Cylinder Head Leakdown Tester

With the use of air pressure, a cylinder leakage test will aid in the diagnosis. Use the cylinder leakage test in conjunction with the engine compression test in order to isolate the cause of leaking cylinders.

Warning: Refer to Battery Disconnect Warning (Service Precautions).

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Replacement (Service and Repair).
3. Install the J-35667-A - Cylinder Head Leakdown Tester.
4. Measure each cylinder on the compression stroke, with both valves closed.

Note: Hold the crankshaft balancer bolt in order to prevent piston movement.

5. Apply air pressure, using the J-35667-A - Tester. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
6. Record the cylinder leakage readings for each cylinder.

Note:
* Normal cylinder leakage is from 12-18 percent.
* Make a note of any cylinder with more leakage than the other cylinders.
* Any cylinder with 30 percent leakage or more requires service.

7. Inspect the 4 primary areas in order to properly diagnose a leaking cylinder.
8. If air is heard from the intake or exhaust system, perform the following procedure:

* Remove the valve rocker arm cover of the suspect cylinder head.

- Ensure that both valves are closed.
- Inspect the cylinder head for a broken valve spring.

* Remove and inspect the suspect cylinder head. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection (54. Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection).

9. If air is heard from the crankcase system at the crankcase - oil filler tube, perform the following procedure:

1. Remove the piston from the suspect cylinder.
2. Inspect the piston and connecting rod assembly. Refer to Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Cleaning and Inspection (46. Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Cleaning and Inspection).
3. Inspect the engine block. Refer to Engine Block Cleaning and Inspection (38. Engine Block Cleaning and Inspection).

10. If bubbles are found in the radiator, perform the following procedure:

* Remove and inspect both cylinder heads. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection (54. Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection).
* Inspect the engine block. Refer to Engine Block Cleaning and Inspection (38. Engine Block Cleaning and Inspection).

11. Remove the J-35667-A - Tester.
12. Install the spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Replacement (Service and Repair).
13. Connect the negative battery cable.