Posts Tagged ‘radiator care’

Protecting Your Car’s Cooling System

Monday, August 24th, 2009

704568_car_motor_1

Your car’s cooling system has a series of components that need to be kept in perfect condition for your car to work. If the balance is altered or if some of the components are not in running condition, your car may become sluggish and the engine can end up suffering in the long run.

Coolant. Check its level regularly and refill with a mix of 50 percent water and 50 percent antifreeze as needed.

Radiator. Check for corrosion and leaks. Coolant leaks in particular are dangerous, as they can cause the car to overheat to the point of breaking down. If the radiator is cracker, replace it to prevent leaks. Debris that blocks the front of the radiator can damage the fins as well as prevent hot air from escaping.

Hoses. Cracked or leaking hoses should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent leaks. If the hose seems too dry, cracking is probably imminent.

Fans and Belts. Electric fans can stop working at any time and lead to engine overheating. Belts =, including those around the fan, should be replaced once they stretch or look worn, as this can lead to them slipping and causing serious issues with the steering pump or even the alternators.

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Automotive, Car Care | 11 Comments »

Basic Radiator Maintenance

Monday, June 1st, 2009

406528_red_car_1

Routine maintenance of your vehicle should always include checking the coolant level.

To do so, pop the hood open and look for the radiator cap, usually found down center in the engine compartment. One very important point, never open a radiator cap if the engine is hot. Contents of the radiator are under pressure and this can result in serious injury.

Once the engine has cooled, wear a thick glove or place a towel over the cap and slowly turn it. If there is a hissing sound, stop, and close the cap-this means there is still pressure.

Coolant for the vehicle is a mixture of anti-freeze and water. This can be purchased together (known as 50-50 coolant) or separately. Clear directions can always be found on the back of the container. If mixing anti-freeze with water at home, make sure to use only distilled water so your radiator doesn’t rust.

Also, usually to the left of the radiator and in front of the battery is the radiator fluid reservoir. The reservoir both siphons and receives fluid from the actual radiator as needed. Make sure the reservoir is also sufficiently full. After this, check the radiator hoses, of which there are usually three. One leads to the reservoir, the others to the engine. Inspect them to make certain they are not cracked and leaking. Check where the hoses are connected via clamps as well and replace as needed.

Tags: , ,
Posted in Automotive, Car Care, Car Curiosities | No Comments »