Air Evacuation | SVTP Tool-Tech | UView - Airlift Cooling System Rad-Vac
This is one tool that I never thought would get as much use as it does. I’m constantly surprised how often I find myself reaching into my tool box for my UView - Airlift Cooling System Rad-Vac. Basically anytime you break into the cooling system on your vehicle you should be pulling a vacuum on system to make sure it’s properly filled and that there are no leaks. That goes air-to-water intercooled supercharger systems too.
Super useful tool in a small package.
So I originally bought this Rad Vac tool it was for one job, flushing and refilling the cooling system on the 6.4L Powerstroke engine in the SVTP 2009 F-350. Those engines are particularly vulnerable to cooling system issues. If there’s the least amount of air left in the circuit it can lead to cavitation between the water pump impeller and the aluminum front cover. If that process goes on for a long enough period of time sufficient material will be eroded from the front cover to allow oil pan to fill with coolant. Not a great situation to be in.
This thing is made of a heavy brass/bronze alloy.
So with the Rad Vac, and an air compressor, you can put the entire system under vacuum and ensure it is properly filled with coolant and free of air pockets. You can also use it to test for leaks. All you have to do is pull a vacuum on the system, note the position of the gauge, and if the pressure increases appreciably over time then you have an issue. If it stays steady then you’re good to go.
This accessory makes properly filling the system with the coolant of your choice super easy.
This tool is invaluable if you are planning on working on modern diesels or anything with a positive displacement supercharger. Like I mentioned before, I’m surprised how often I use my (and how often friends ask to borrow it). The particular make and model I have came from Amazon. Check out the link below:
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Now there are many different types of Rad-Vacs, made from a few different materials, at very different price points. The one I’m showing here is pretty middle of the road. It’s not the cheapest plastic version available, but it’s not a Snap-On or Matco one either. It is constructed of heavy brass/bronze and comes with a bunch of different accessories and fittings to allow it to work with a large number of vehicles. It even comes in a snazzy carrying case. What’s not to love?
Check out our full video review:
All you need is this tool and a line hooked to an air compressor to create a vacuum in your cooling system.
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Check out the fancy case you get with this thing.
This is the filling accessory. Just pull a vacuum, stick this in a jug of coolant, and crank open the valve.
Here you can see the system all hooked up. You'll need to find a vessel to catch any potential blow-by.
How do you know you've pulled a good vacuum on the system? When your radiator hoses look like this.
Those of you who've been around a while know I call Ford Gold Coolant "The Devil." It leaves sludge like this in your cooling system.
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