Engine overheating can be caused by anything that prevents the cooling system’s ability to absorb, transport and dissipate heat, and radiator fluid plays a role in all three. Periodically testing and changing the radiator coolant fluid can ensure that the corrosion inhibiting properties of your coolant remain in proper balance to help maintain the health of the cooling system.
Coolant System Failure Are Common. The coolant system is a vital part of your vehicle. It is also the second most common cause for vehicle failures. Even though coolant system failure is fairly common, it is easy to prevent.
The fins you see that are held within the radiator body draw Heat Away From Radiator Fluid Coolant. The most recognizable part of the coolant system is the radiator. It is connected to the engine with hoses and is filled with a mixture of anti-freeze (anti-boil) and water. The coolant draws heat off the engine and then goes into the radiator. Air passes through cooling fins drawing heat from the coolant, that then passes through the engine water jacket for antoher cycle.
The Proper Coolant Mixture Can Help Prevent Engine Damage. There are several reasons for your cooling system to fail. Most common is with the coolant itself. Coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze. The proper mixture keeps the coolant from either boiling away or freezing. Both of which can result in massive engine damage. Another very important coolant issue that is often overlooked is the age of the coolant itself. Antifreeze has additives that protect the coolant system from corrosion. As these additives become stale and depleted over time, they can’t protect the radiator and other parts from rust, scaling and corrosion in a degraded state. Old coolant may still keep your engine cool, but it won’t protect it from corrosion.
Have Your Cooling System Checked by Performance Truck and Auto If The Gauge Shows Signs Of Overheating. If you see a warning message to check the coolant or if the temperature gauge is in the hot zone your cooling system needs to be checked. It’s OK to add water or antifreeze yourself. But you need to be cautious. Remember four things.
•First, you never want to open the radiator pressure cap when the engine is hot. You could be severely burned.
•Second, try to get to your service center immediately if your coolant is low. If that is not possible, follow the directions in your owners manual – it will direct you to only make additions to the coolant overflow bottle.
•Third, remember that you need a proper mixture of water and antifreeze. If you make an emergency addition to your cooling system, follow-up with Performance Truck and Auto where they can make necessary corrections by testing the mixture with properly calibrated test equipment.
•Fourth, not all vehicles use the same type of antifreeze. You need to check your owners manual to make sure you use the right type and grade. Mixing antifreeze types or using the incorrect type of antifreeze may void the manufacturers warranty on your cooling system. Again, another reason to rely on Performance Truck and Auto to do things right.
A Radiator Fluid Change Is Inexpensive Compared To Engine Repair Remember, Performance Truck and Auto has the equipment to change your coolant quickly and inexpensively.
