DEFINITION: Most fluid leaks can be solved by first visually locating the leak, repairing or replacing the component, or by resealing the gasket surface. Once the leak is identified, determine the cause of the leak. Repair the cause of the leak as well as the leak itself.

Visual Inspection Method

1. Operate the vehicle for several miles at varying speeds until it reaches normal operating temperature.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface, over a large sheet of paper or other clean surface.
3. Wait 15 minutes and check for drippings.
4. Identify the type of fluid (engine oil, automatic transmission fluid, coolant etc.) and the approximate location of the leak.
5. Visually inspect the suspected area. Use a small mirror to assist in looking at hard to see areas.
6. Check for leaks at sealing surfaces, fittings, or from cracked or damaged components.
7. If the leak cannot be found it may be necessary to completely clean the suspected area or components and perform the visual inspection method again.
8. If the leak still cannot be located, use the powder method or the black light and dye method in order to locate the leak.
9. See possible causes for leaks.

Powder Method

1. Completely clean the entire engine and surrounding components.
2. Apply an aerosol-type powder (baby powder, foot powder, etc.) to the suspected area.
3. Operate the vehicle for several miles at varying speeds until it reaches normal operating temperature.
4. Visually inspect the suspected area. Use a small mirror to assist in looking at hard to see areas.
5. Trace the leak path over the white powder surface to the source.
6. Identify the type of fluid (engine oil, automatic transmission fluid, coolant etc.) and the approximate location of the leak from the discolorations in the powder surface.
7. See possible causes for leaks.

Black Light and Dye Method

1. A J 28428-E High Intensity Black Light and J 28431-6 Fluorescent Oil Additive are available for finding fluid leaks.
2. Follow the manufacturer's instructions that are included with the J 28431-6 .
3. Pour the specified amount of J 28431-6 into the leaking component. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the proper amount of oil additive.
4. Operate the vehicle for several miles at varying speeds until it reaches normal operating temperature.
5. Shine the J 28428-E onto the suspected area. The J 28431-6 fluid will appear as a yellow path leading to the source of the oil leak.
6. Visually inspect the suspected area. Use a small mirror to assist in looking at hard to see areas.
7. See possible causes for leaks.

Possible Causes for Leaks

Inspect for the following conditions: