Sealey VS0061 Combustion Leak Detector User Manual

1. Introduction

The Sealey VS0061 Combustion Leak Detector is designed to quickly and accurately diagnose blown head gaskets, cracked blocks, and cylinder heads by detecting the presence of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the cooling system. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of the device.

Key Features:

• Diagnoses blown gaskets and cracked blocks and cylinder heads easily and quickly.
• Checks for CO2 in cooling system and indicates its presence by test fluid colour change.
• Can be used with a cone adaptor or in conjunction with radiator caps from Model No's VS001, VS0011, VS0033 and VS006.

2. Safety Information

Always observe the following safety precautions when using the Sealey VS0061 Combustion Leak Detector:

• Read and understand all instructions before use.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye protection and gloves, when handling test fluid or working near hot engine components.
• Ensure the engine is cool before opening the radiator cap to avoid scalding from hot coolant.
• Do not ingest the test fluid. In case of accidental ingestion, seek immediate medical attention.
• Avoid contact of the test fluid with skin and eyes. Rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs.
• Keep the test fluid and detector out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of used test fluid and components according to local environmental regulations.
• Use the detector only for its intended purpose.

3. Package Contents

Your Sealey VS0061 Combustion Leak Detector kit includes the following components:

• 1 x Combustion Leak Detector Unit (main transparent chamber with rubber bulb and brass fittings)
• 1 x Bottle of Test Fluid (blue liquid)
• 1 x Empty Bottle (for fluid transfer/storage)
• 1 x Storage Case (red plastic case)

Figure 3.1: The Sealey VS0061 Combustion Leak Detector kit, showing the main detector unit, test fluid, and empty bottle neatly organized within its red protective case.

Figure 3.2: An alternative view of the Sealey VS0061 kit, highlighting the individual components including the detector, test fluid, and accessory bottle.

4. Setup

4.1 Preparing the Detector

1. Ensure the engine is completely cool before proceeding. This is crucial to prevent scalding from hot coolant and to ensure accurate test results.
2. Carefully remove the radiator cap. If the cooling system is pressurized, release pressure slowly by turning the cap to the first stop, then fully remove it once pressure is relieved.
3. Check the coolant level. If the coolant level is too high, remove some coolant to create an air gap above the coolant surface in the radiator neck. This air gap is necessary for the detector to draw air from the system.

4.2 Filling the Test Fluid Chamber

1. Unscrew the top cap of the transparent detector chamber.
2. Carefully pour the blue test fluid into the chamber up to the indicated fill line. Do not overfill.
3. Screw the top cap back onto the chamber securely.

Figure 4.1: A detailed view of the Sealey VS0061 detector's components, including the transparent chamber where the test fluid is added, the rubber bulb for drawing air, and the brass fittings.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Performing the Test

1. Insert the cone adaptor of the detector firmly into the radiator neck opening. Ensure a tight seal to prevent ambient air from entering the system. If using with specific radiator caps (VS001, VS0011, VS0033, VS006), attach the detector accordingly.
2. Start the engine and allow it to idle. The engine should be at operating temperature for best results, but ensure the coolant is not boiling over.
3. With the engine idling, repeatedly squeeze and release the rubber bulb of the detector. This action draws air from the cooling system through the test fluid. Continue this process for approximately 1-2 minutes, or until a clear color change is observed.
4. Observe the color of the test fluid.

5.2 Interpreting Results

• Blue Fluid (No Change): If the test fluid remains blue, it indicates that no CO2 is detected in the cooling system. This suggests that the head gasket, cylinder head, or engine block is likely intact and not leaking combustion gases into the coolant.
• Yellow/Green Fluid (Color Change): If the test fluid changes color from blue to yellow or green, it indicates the presence of CO2 in the cooling system. This is a strong indication of a combustion leak, typically caused by a blown head gasket, cracked cylinder head, or cracked engine block. The intensity of the color change (towards yellow) may correlate with the severity of the leak.

After the test, carefully remove the detector from the radiator neck. Turn off the engine.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: After each use, rinse the transparent chamber and cone adaptor thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual test fluid. Ensure all components are dry before storage.
• Fluid Replacement: The test fluid is consumed during the detection process. For refill, order Sealey Model No. VS0061F. Do not use substitute fluids.
• Storage: Store the detector and test fluid in their original case in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Keep out of reach of children.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect the rubber bulb and brass fittings for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Replace components if necessary to ensure proper sealing and function.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or replacement parts for your Sealey VS0061 Combustion Leak Detector, please refer to the official Sealey website or contact Sealey customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

For test fluid refills, order Model No. VS0061F.