Cooling System

Some motorists who take very good care of the rest of their car ignore the cooling system completely--except perhaps for a yearly check of coolant level. This is unfortunate because the radiator and various other cooling system components will deteriorate rapidly if coolant is not renewed at regular intervals. Furthermore, if the systern is not flushed periodically, cooling capacity will be lost as passages clog with contaminants. Most manufacturers recommend yearly inspection and pressure testing, accompanied by a back flush and refill every two years. However, for the do-it- your self who doesn't have access to back flushing equipment, a yearly drain, flush and refill is a good idea. Before draining coolant, check the condition of all belts and hoses. Look for cracking, swelling and oil or grease damage to hoses. Pay particular attention to the area just behind the clamp. Sometimes the clamp will dig its way into the hose. Black flecks in the coolant are an indication of internal hose deterioration. Tests indicate that most hoses last no longer than three or four years, so regular replacement is a good idea regardless of the outside appearance. The same is true of most conventional V-belts. It's difficult to judge belt condition on the basis of appearance. Of course, any belts that are cracked, glazed or shredded must be replaced, even if they are less than four years old. When replacing belts, it is best to tension thern using a gauge that is designed for this purpose. However, a little push with your thumb in the centre of the belt's longest span is better than no tension check at all. If you can deflect the belt more than 15 to 20 mm. while applying moderate pressure, it is too loose. You would need to tighten the belt. If the belt is left too loose you would hear a high pitched squeeling noise from the engine erratically. Also keeping mind that the belt should not be over tightned this would cause a bearing failure and resultant damage to the driven part.