Cooling System Pressure Tester

[volvo92906]

Hey, looking for some insight.

I have a 2005 Grand Prix with the 3.8L.

I need a pressure tester adapter for it. It has a plastic screw on cap on the radiator, not a genius design of a stamped metal cap that seems to be out dated nowadays. I have found some online and they seem to be around 50 or 60.00. I DO NOT want one of those universal expander ones.. Long story on that.

So for the experienced parts guys, is this a price I am looking at paying or are there cheaper somewhere else?

Thank you.

 

[devoncoolman]

The plastic adapters can be had cheap. My snap-on tester came with that one. Ive had them universial adapters come flying out and coolant everywhere. I only use that one if i have to.

 

[signcrafter]

Here is the stant 12032 for 42 bucks shipped at amazon, that's were I got mine. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000CKTJZU/?tag=atomicindus08-20 Can also try assenmacher but I'm not sure of the number on that one.

 

[neel2008]

If you think it is going to be a "one time thing" and you don't want to buy one. Autozone has them in the loan a tool section....

 

[volvo92906]

Nah, id rather have my own. Plus, all the Auto Zone by me has is the standard adapters.. which I also have.

Thanks signcrafter.. Saves a few bucks off of Summit, which is here in Ohio. Fortunately I am not in any hurry for it as I have replaced everything but the coolant pump and heater core.. I might go this route.. I appreciate it.

 

[signcrafter]

No problem. I also tried the universal bladder type and have gone back to the metal adapters. They may be expensive but they should last.

 

[GTA Matt]

Nah, id rather have my own. Plus, all the Auto Zone by me has is the standard adapters.. which I also have.

Thanks signcrafter.. Saves a few bucks off of Summit, which is here in Ohio. Fortunately I am not in any hurry for it as I have replaced everything but the coolant pump and heater core.. I might go this route.. I appreciate it.

Get you a mirror and flashlight and check for coolant stains under the water pump and around the wizz hole. Also get a good look at the two plastic coolant elbows going into the tensioner bracket. The bottom one is a bit tricky to see but a common leaker. Dexcool is usually pretty good about leaving a stain behind when it burns off on a hot motor. Might save you from having to spend $40 for a one or two time use tool. I assume you've done upper and lower intake gaskets?

 

[volvo92906]

Get you a mirror and flashlight and check for coolant stains under the water pump and around the wizz hole. Also get a good look at the two plastic coolant elbows going into the tensioner bracket. The bottom one is a bit tricky to see but a common leaker. Dexcool is usually pretty good about leaving a stain behind when it burns off on a hot motor. Might save you from having to spend $40 for a one or two time use tool. I assume you've done upper and lower intake gaskets?

GTA Matt... Those stupid elbows are what made me have to replace everything else. Hahaha. I was on my way to work Tuesday and my temp went up. I replaced them with the aluminum ones.. Tried to quick fix it back together to get home and had air in my system so it was still overheating. Had a hell of a time bleeding it out so said screw it and did all the hoses and thermostat right then as well. Been driving my 88 F-150 all week and the gas mileage difference is HUGE. Its all done now though.

I havent done the gaskets.. But I dont even know if theyve been done. I would just like the adapter so I can pressure test my own system if need be.. As signcrafter said... Those bladder types dont work too well. We have one at work but it didnt work for me... Nowhere for the fingers on the tool to grab on and lock. Thats why im not in any rush for the adapter.. But I would like to get my own. I shouldnt and probably wont have any problems.. But it helps for those tricky leaks. Didnt know that about DEX though..