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Your car ran fine all summer with no sign of trouble, so why bother with it
this fall?
Here's why. The cost of overhauling an engine can run into thousands of
dollars; automatic transmission repairs also are expensive. And cooling system
neglect could be responsible.
This system performs several functions: (1) it must keep the engine running
within specified temperatures, not too hot and not too cold; (2) it cools the
automatic transmission and, lest we forget, (3) it circulates hot water
through the heater.
Temperatures inside an engine may soar to 4,500 - 5,000 degrees F., enough to
melt an engine block in a matter of minutes if it were not for the cooling
system.
Over the years there have been numerous developments that make it harder for
the cooling system to perform these tasks. Today's engines run much hotter
than in years gone by. Added emission control systems, smaller radiators and
crowded engine compartments add to the challenge.
Use this check list to be sure your car will survive the cold months ahead.
To avoid problems resulting from rust, dirt and mineral deposits in the cooling
system, it's best to give it an internal cleaning every year or two.
It's Easy! Here's How:
- Begin with the engine cold and ignition off. Remove the radiator pressure
cap.
- Open the petcock at the bottom of the radiator and drain the coolant into a
bucket.
- Close the petcock and fill the radiator with water.
- Start the engine and turn the heater control to hot. Add cooling system
cleaner and idle the engine for 30 minutes (or as per the instructions on
container).
- Stop the engine and allow it to cool for five minutes. Drain the system.
- Close the petcock, fill the radiator with water and let the engine idle for
five minutes.
- Repeat step No. 5. Close the petcock.
- Install new 50/50 mixture of water and ethylene glycol
antifreeze/coolant.
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