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CAUTION: NEVER REMOVE THE RADIATOR
PRESSURE CAP WHILE THE ENGINE AND COOLANT ARE STILL HOT. ONCE
THE ENGINE HAS COOLED, REMOVE THE CAP VERY SLOWLY!!
Your vehicle's cooling system protects your engine against
heat generated during normal operations by keeping the engine
operating within the correct temperature range. If the cooling
system is not operating properly and the temperature range is
exceeded the engine can be damaged. Regular checks and maintenance
help assure long life of vulnerable engine parts. The cooling
system maintenance schedule recommended by the vehicle manufacturer
should be followed. Here are some of the basic steps in proper
cooling system maintenance:
-
Check
the condition of the water pump by inspecting for coolant
leaks and by checking the pump shaft for "play"
which may indicate excessive wear. If either of these conditions
exists you may need to replace the water pump.
-
Inspect
the radiator for leaks and corrosion.
-
Be
sure your radiator coolant level is maintained at the manufacturer's
recommended level. CAUTION: NEVER OPEN OR REMOVE THE PRESSURE
CAP WHEN ENGINE IS HOT
- Look for leaking hoses,
fittings, and connections. Tighten loose clamps.
- Inspect condition of hoses. Cracked, mushy
or otherwise deteriorated hoses should be replaced.
- Check condition of the radiator pressure
cap. Replace if rubber gasket is damaged.
- If the engine runs
too cool or hot, the thermostat, fan or fan clutch may be at
fault and should be replaced. The temperature gauge reading
outside the normal range may indicate this condition or the
check engine light may be on. Check your service manual to evaluate
their performance.
- Heater hoses demand
attention too. Look for leaks, cracks or rotted rubber. Replace
faulty clamps.
- Check belts for wear
and tension. Replace when cracked or frayed.
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