Pre-made Boost Leak Tester

[Spun MkIII]

Link to product:
http://www.speedforsale.com/newpart...id=86&osCsid=db942a0c5114bf0aaf833edaa7784b92

Installation instructions for MKIV:
http://www.speedforsale.com/techarticles.php?mode=disp&vid=11

I know there have been threads on how to make boost leak testers before, but it seems that most methods require you to use an air compressor with a build-in pressure regulator. Since I don’t have one of my own, this seems to be a good alternative that would allow me to use an ordinary gas station air compressor since it utilizes a connector commonly found on tire valves (not pictured above) and a built-in pressure gauge.

Although this kit is advertised specifically for MKIV’s, it seems like it should work with a short piece of hose clamped between the boost leak tester and the turbo inlet (since custom sizes are available). What has me confused, however, is that the instructions suggest not to pressurize the intake system to over 7psi without inserting an optional ‘dummy plug’ into the intercooler piping where it connects to the throttle body, hence only testing the IC pipes. Would this apply to my application as well, or could I simply pressurize the entire system to my desired boost pressure? (I’m currently running a cone filter, full 3” exhaust, and full Cooleeze IC pipes at barely 7psi)

 

[steve_mk3]

seems to me that you would have to plug the system at the TB. That would test your pipeing and intercooler for leaks.

I am not sure about this, but if you pressure the intake manifold and one of the cylenders is in a position where both intake and exhaust vales are open you would just be blowing the pressure out your tail pipe. you may not want to put that much pressure on your TB plate, in the real world your Blow off Valve would be active with the TB closed and that much pressure. I suppose you could just open the TB??.
Not sure that helped, but its my thoughts and a bump up to the top.

Steve

 

[Spun MkIII]

I can see how plugging the system at the TB would simply test the intercooler and IC pipes, but when the TB plate is open, doesn't the intake manifold and everything connected to it withstand the same boost pressure?

So if I held the TB open and pressurized the entire intake system to my desired boost level, could I quickly listen for leaks before I lose too much pressure out the exhaust? Or is there a reason why the instructions say not to exceed 7psi? It seems to me that the entire intake system should be capable of withstanding the simulated boost pressure.