Air Intake: verification of a water tight seal

[mountainpete]

Hi guys,

Looking for some thoughts on this one:

Other than driving through some water, what is the best way to determine if an airbox and intake pipes are properly sealed from water?

Is the best way to just plug the end and see how fast the engine dies? Or for a snorkel owner, remove the head and put a bag over the opening? Then just listen for areas where air is being sucked in?

I'm doing some sealing of the components and I don't really think I did the best job. RTV sealer and I don't get along very well. I seem to get it everywhere I don't want to!

Thanks,

Pete

 

[HenryJ]

What about using the same method used to find vacuum leaks? Spray a can of injector cleaner around a suspect area and listen for changes in the engine rpm.

An old Mud Bogger's trick for sealing the tubes and ignition components is to spray it down good with a coating of cheap hairspray. The cheap "liquid helmet" stuff works great.
Don't let the wife catch you stealing hers. A happier home will result if you buy your own. Some of the stuff they use is very expensive, it works good , but they are not pleased. Don't ask how I know

(This is our old Mud Bogger- The Turbid Necromancer )

 

[Nuclear Redneck]

There is also a tool available that uses a small directional mike to hear the ultra sonic whistle produced by air flow into the vacuum of the intake nad converts it into something you can hear. You maybe able to get a HVAC guy to test you stuff for you.

Another trick I've seen used successfully is to hold a small piece of saran wrap near the air intake system and move it along. It will be sucked in by even the smallest leak.

Cheers,

 

[flyingwil]

Pete-

What did you end up doing?

 

[viter]

good question and interesting answers!!!
I have similar problems with damn rtv!
I'll bet you even if you seal up all the air intake ducting joints well and close off the actual intake (be it a snorkel pipe or the stock intake tube) engine will still manage to suck in air thru the space between the box and the lid (at least on 2001-2004 taco's). that airbox/lid combination might be splash proof but not airtight. plus the air box itself might have a couple of holes for water drainage or what not (I know my 03 taco has them), so look into sealing those if you plan on really deep water excursions.