On-Vehicle Inspection

CAUTION: Do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Pressurized, hot engine coolant and steam may be released and cause serious burns.

INSPECT FOR COOLANT LEAK
1. Fill the radiator with coolant and attach a radiator cap tester.
2. Warm up the engine.
3. Using the radiator cap tester, increase the pressure inside the radiator to 123 kPa (1.3 kgf/cm² , 18 psi), and check that the pressure does not drop. If the pressure drops, check the hoses, radiator and water pump for leaks. If no external leaks are found, check the heater core, cylinder block and head.
  
  Fig 1: Inspecting Coolant Leak
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
INSPECT ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL
1. Check that the engine coolant level is between the L and F lines when the engine is cold.
  If the engine coolant is below the L line, check for leaks and add "TOYOTA Super Long Life Coolant" or similar high quality ethylene glycol based non-silicate, non-amine, non-nitrite and non-borate coolant with long-life hybrid organic acid technology to the F line.
  
  NOTE: Do not substitute plain water for engine coolant.
2. Remove the radiator cap, and check that the coolant level is up to the radiator filler hole.
  
  Fig 2: Identifying Engine Coolant Level
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
INSPECT ENGINE COOLANT QUALITY
1. Remove the radiator cap.
2. Check if there are any excessive deposits of rust or scales around the radiator cap and radiator filler hole. Also, the coolant should be free of oil.
  If excessively dirty, clean the coolant passage and replace the coolant.
3. Install the radiator cap.
INSPECT FLUID COUPLING ASSEMBLY
1. Check the turning smoothness of the fluid coupling. If necessary, replace the fluid coupling assembly.
2. Check the fluid coupling for damage or silicon oil leaks.
  If necessary, replace the fluid coupling assembly.
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Fluid Coupling Assembly
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002