Intercooler maintenance

[sparks57]

After I started thinking about the radiator, I started thinking about the intercooler. Is the only way to check it through a pressure test? What kind of facility would be able to do such a test? How much does a test run?



If they find leaks... is it fixable or do you have to get a new intercooler?

 

[Greenleaf]

The cooler is tested by plugging one end off, capping the other w/ a fitting to apply regulated air, say 15lbs. The air is shut off and held. I do not know what the % of air loss is normal, if any. These are repaired by a qualified radiator repair shop. The coolers tend to be all aluminum as opposed to copper in some radiators.



Maintenance involves checking for debris and cleaning it out of the fins.



Scott

 

[AlK]

To help keep the intercooler and the radiator free from debris install some bug screening right behind the grille.

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Al

 

[dpuckett]

Originally posted by Greenleaf

The cooler is tested by plugging one end off, capping the other w/ a fitting to apply regulated air, say 15lbs... .

Um, you better double that at least. My pickup will make 34 psi without the cooler (probably high 20s with one, when and if I get around to it), and just because it doesnt leak at 15 psi, doesnt necessarily mean it wont leak at 30 or 40 or ? psi. Not trying to nit pick, just dont want some yeah- hoo at a shop that can barely ID the intercooler tell you it's good or bad, when it may not have been thoroughly tested.



Daniel