GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Pressure Cap Testing

Warning: In order to help avoid being burned, do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and the radiator are hot. Scalding fluid and steam can be blown out under pressure if the cap is removed too soon.

  1. Remove the pressure cap.
  2. Wash the pressure cap mating surface with water.
  3. Use a cooling system pressure tester with a suitable adapter in order to test the pressure cap.
  4. Test the pressure cap for the following conditions:
  5. • Pressure release when the cooling system pressure tester exceeds the pressure rating of the pressure cap
    • Maintain the rated pressure for at least 10 seconds.
    • Note the rate of pressure loss.
  6. Replace the pressure cap under the following conditions:
  7. • The pressure cap does not release pressure which exceeds the rated pressure of the cap.
    • The pressure cap does not hold the rated pressure.