How effective are the leak diagnostics kits

Tiny
ADU
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I have already spent $50 on leak diagnostics (coolant & oil) only to learn they rely on dyes to detect the problem and looks-simple-manual procedures.

I have also seen fluid leak diagnostic kits available in auto-parts store. These seem to comprise of dyes (ac, coolant, oil, transaxle), an injector, UV glasses, hose connectors.
Do we have to drain out the dye after using it (Directions in the kit did not mention anything abt this)?

How reliable are these kits and is it a DIY task?

Thanks,
adu
Thursday, January 4th, 2007 AT 7:28 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
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Looking for leaks isn't as black and white as throwing in dye and it will slap you in the face and just show up.

I try to use dye as a last resort. It works, and you don't need to remove it if you don't want. It's messy sometimes and doesn't always make it simple.

I thoughly clean the area in question with brake clean or whatever solvent won't damage anything, then dry it with compressed air. Run the motor and watch. If nothing obvious take it for a quick ride and recheck. If still nothing get it at highways speeds then recheck. If still nothing give it a day or two.
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Thursday, January 4th, 2007 AT 8:17 PM
Tiny
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Do you have a physical leak from the coolant or oil, or it just disappearing and don't know where its going.

If there's a physical leak-I would take Mr. Service Writer's advised and go from there.
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Thursday, January 4th, 2007 AT 9:13 PM
Tiny
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MR.?
******
Steve Martin Movies Quotes
The Jerk Quotes (1979)

The new phone book's here! The new phone book's here! This is the kind of spontaneous publicity I need! My name in print! That really makes somebody! Things are going to start happening to me now.

First I get my name in the phone book and now I'm on your ass. You know, I'll bet more people see that than the phone book.

I know we've only known each other 4 weeks and 3 days, but to me it seems like 9 weeks and 5 days.

******

Sorry, got carried away. Internal leaks are another story. I seen a different post by Abu about a rear main seal, and made the assumption. :Wink:
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Friday, January 5th, 2007 AT 4:51 AM

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