dangerous temperature
Summer is a serious test for the engine cooling system. At air temperatures reaching almost 30 ° C, even slight ailments will make themselves felt and can lead to overheating of the engine.
An internal combustion engine converts only a small amount of the heat generated from the combustion of fuel into
Work. The rest leaves with the exhaust gases and through the cooling system, which must be discharged by about 30 percent. heat generated by the engine. With insufficient cooling, an overheated engine will fail after a few minutes of operation. So it's worth spending some time on this layout.
You can do the basic operation yourself as it is very easy.
Inspection must begin with checking the fluid level in the expansion tank. Refueling can be done only after the engine has cooled down, since the fluid is under pressure and opening it when the system is hot can cause burns. A small deficit is allowed (up to 0,5 liters). When there is no more, it means a leak, which is quite easy to spot because the leak is white.
The radiator may be leaking, but the rubber hoses, pump, and heater should also be checked.
The thermostat that controls the amount of coolant flowing may also be leaking. If the thermostat is damaged in the closed position, the engine will overheat after a few kilometers. Then you can save yourself by turning the heater and fan on to the maximum. Of course, this procedure will not allow you to continue normal driving, but at least you will be able to drive to the nearest garage.
The cooling efficiency also depends on the quality of the liquid. It is not good to fill the system with one concentrate, because the heat-removing capacity of such a liquid is much less than that of the same, but mixed with water in the right proportion.
Cooling also depends on the cleanliness of the radiator, which after a few years can become heavily contaminated with insects or dirt. Cleaning must be done carefully so as not to damage the delicate cores.
Fans play an important role, so it is necessary to check their operation. They turn on cyclically and prevent the system from overheating. If they don't work, it's very easy to find the cause. The first thing to do is check the fuses. When they're good, all you have to do is find the fan's thermal switch (usually in the head) and toggle it. If the fan then starts, the switch is faulty.
The next and last point to check is the V-belt that drives the water pump. If it is too loose, the cooling efficiency will be lower.
