LO 10-9 Identify potential causes of high oil consumption, the purpose and function of oil level sensors, and maintenance procedures to correct oil consumption

1. High Oil Consumption

1.2. SKILL DRILL 10-2  Locating an Oil Leak

SKILL DRILL 10-2  Locating an Oil Leak

 

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STEP 1
Obtain the correct type of fluorescent tracing dye. Some dyes are only compatible with oil, fuel, coolant, or refrigerant. Choose the correct type.

STEP 2
Bring the engine to operating temperature and add the prescribed amount of dye to the engine oil as recommended by the dye manufacturer.

STEP 3
Road test the vehicle with the engine under load. When checking for a leak, it is important to get the engine oil to operating temperature. High oil pressure and hot oil will reveal leaks quicker than low oil pressure and cold oil.

STEP 4
After running the engine for 20–40 minutes, shut the engine off and examine the engine using a UV light. Some kits use alligator clips to power compact, 12-volt lights. The newest dyes reflect a bright yellow-green color at a leak path under UV light. The use of glasses with yellow lenses further enhances the appearance of the dye, making even small leaks easier to detect in tight spots.

STEP 5
If uncertain about the actual spot leaking, clean the area with an aerosol solvent and recheck the area with the engine running.

STEP 6
Record your observations and make a repair recommendation based on your findings.

 

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