Cooling system pressure test?

[AZPete]

I've got a coolant leak somewhere above the top of the block and it leaks only when the system is warm. I'd like to pressurize to the system to find the leak when it's cool, but what's the easiest way to do that?

[Hindsight]

Pressure test kit. Here is a cheap one. http://www.amazon.com/Mityvac-MV4560.../dp/B003V9L05G

If you already have a mityvac, I'm not sure if they sell just the adapter fittings. But if you already own the mityvac, you could to it just as easily by getting some hose and fittings, and "splicing" the mityvac into one of the lines to the coolant expansion tank. Pressurize it to 13 to 15 psi (about 1-2 psi lower than whatever it says on your reservoir cap) then look for the leak.

[Jimalan1989]

you may be able to rent a pressure tester from a local parts store. you could also try tooltopia.com they have tons of tools at good prices

[AZPete]

To follow up, I made a McGyver pressure tester from an old bicycle pump spliced into a tube from the Coolant reservoir. I found the coolant leak was from a hose clamp I had not tightened enough many months ago. I'm relieved it wasn't something more $erious!

[RM1SepEx]

Nice hack Pete!