October 07, 2015
Cooling System Auto Maintenance
Cooling System Auto Maintenance Categories: My Car It is recommended that a
seven (7)-point preventative cooling system maintenance check be performed at
least once every two years. Consult your vehicle owners manual for specific auto
guidelines. This inspection is designed to identify areas that need
attention,and consists of: * a visual inspection of all cooling system
components,including belts and hoses * a radiator cap pressure test to check for
the recommended system pressure level * a thermostat check for proper opening
and closing * a pressure test to identify any external leaks to the cooling
system parts;including the radiator,water pump,engine coolant passages,radiator
and heater hoses and heater core * an internal leak test to check for combustion
gas leakage into the cooling system * an engine cooling fan test for proper
operation Cooling System Operation Antifreeze/Coolant The main function of the
Cooling System is to carry heat away from the engine and maintain the desired
operating temperature. This is accomplished by circulating antifreeze/coolant
through the engine,where heat is generated,and carrying it to the radiator to be
cooled.The temperature of the coolant can
sometimes reach 250 to 275 F (121 to 135 C). Even with antifreeze added,these
temperatures would boil the coolant. To prevent this,the cooling system is
pressurized,which further raises the boiling point of the coolant. Most systems
have around 14 to 15 pounds per square inch (psi),which raises the boiling point
approximately 45 F so the coolant can endure the high temperatures produced in
the engine. Coolant Hoses The radiator hoses and heater hoses are easily
inspected by opening the hood and looking. You want to be sure that the hoses
have no cracking or splitting and that there is no bulging or swelling at the
ends. If there are any signs of problems,the hose should be replaced with the
correct part number for the year,make,model and engine of the vehicle. Never use
a universal hose unless it is an emergency and a proper molded hose is not
available. For either the radiator hoses or the heater hoses,make sure that you
route the replacement hose in the same way that the original hose was running Autel
Autolink AL539. Position the hose away from any obstruction that can
possibly damage it and always use new hose clamps. After the cooling system is
refilled with the proper coolant mixture,a pressure test should be performed to
ensure that there are no leaks. Belts On most older vehicles,the water pump is
driven by either a V belt or serpentine belt on the front of the engine that is
also responsible for driving the alternator autel
maxiscan,power steering pump and air conditioner compressor. These types of
belts are easy to inspect and replace if they are worn. Check for dry cracking
on the inside surface of the belt. On newer vehicles,the water pump is often
driven by the timing belt. This belt usually has a specific life expectancy at
which time it must be replaced to insure that it does not fail. Since the timing
belt is inside the engine and will require partial engine disassembly to
inspect,it is very important to replace the timing belt at the scheduled
interval. Things to watch for * Check antifreeze/coolant level monthly. Only use
a 50/50 solution of anti-freeze/coolant and water. * Water quality plays an
important role in protecting the cooling system. A high mineral content may
cause scaling or corrosion. Deionized or distilled water should be used in 50/50
solution * CAUTION: Do not remove the radiator pressure cap when the engine is
HOT. * Inspect belts monthly. Replace belts that are worn,frayed or glazed.
Adjust belts when more than 1/2 inch can be depressed between the pulleys. *
Belts with spring-loaded tensioners do not require manual adjustments. * Replace
bulging,rotten,or brittle hoses and tighten hose clamps. If a hose looks bad or
feels too soft or too hard,it should be replaced.
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