You need a 3" schedule 40 PVC cap. Some install a Schrader valve, but I don't have a way to hold my air hose to it while I check for leaks. I used an air hose fitting, since I can regulate my air down to 15 PSI. My air hose fitting has a 1/4" pipe thread on the other end and the trickiest part was to find a tap for 1/4" National Pipe Thread (NPT). Maybe you can find something that can be installed with a nut and washer to make an air seal. Not that it's important that it not leak, but it's important everything is quiet so you can hear the real leaks.

Dude... your inbox is full.

 

Haha happened when I was at work. Thanks buddy!

 

I always use a quick disconnect when I make them for people. You can get a small pressure regulator at home depot for a few bucks as well.

 

Agreed, that's what I used - it made the process so simple: Adjust the pressure, hook up, spray. I could hear the leak when the compressor wasn't running and this helped to make short work of the whole process. I'll take a photo of the device and post it when I remember where the heck I put it. I'm going to dive into the valley (to fix boost leaks) after I let Chris (visiting from Texas) drop his foot in it once. I'm sure the PMS fever will spike after that.

 

Just a general question about boost leak detection... I've always wondered what's going on at the engine end when you pressurize the intake. Isn't there always a little leakage through the intake valves and into the cylinders? Is it constantly leaking down a little bit?

I've never done it, just wondering what to expect if I did.

 

i was wondering the same thing, however when i did it the leak was as obvious as all get out..i could hear it and didnt even need the soapy water squirt bottle...

 

Yes. If there is a valve in the open pos then you will hear leakage. No matter what there will be some past the rings, and such.

 

I'm a total dummy in this arena, so I have to rely on all the threads I've read that suggest I keep the pressure down to about 15 PSI. I found my leak with almost no pressure on the supply gauge.

 

To find all my leaks... i had to get creative with my pvc cap. It would only stay in until about 15psi no matter how tight i cranked down on the clamp... so i had to cut grooves in it like threads to get some more grab...
With the cap no longer a shotgun blast to the face waiting to happen again... i cranked her up to 30psi and the pressure turned the motor over a bit...
Everything was holding beautifully at 30psi. Would not have found the leak in my intercooler if i had not gone that high... couple pinholes top drivers side on the inside i need to zip up.

The quick connect feature i also adopted maked the process much less like a dark ritual... what with all the cursing and all. And the inline pressure regulator is a beautiful thing hooked in right at the cap.

 

For the dum dums like myself wondering where this gets plugged into the system at:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post10091987