How to Maintain Car Radiators
A car radiator's primary task is to keep the vehicle's engine cool and operating within the manufacturer's recommended optimal temperature. It works by dissipating heat generated from the engine when the car is running. Due to the tough work it does, radiators occasionally require repair and maintenance. Maintenance helps prevent overheating, which could lead to engine brake down. Here are some of the most important maintenance tasks you need to carry out on your car's radiator:
Check Coolant and Radiator Fluid Levels
Radiators need to be full at all times. Radiator fluid should contain water and coolant mixed at equal measures. Checking coolant levels frequently is important. There could be small leaks that are nearly impossible to detect. Diminishing radiator fluid level should be investigated and all leaks sealed. Radiator fluid level should be visible at all times when the cap is open.
Ensure Tight Radiator Cap
A radiator cap is specially designed to keep the entire cooling system at a specific pressure when the engine is running. A faulty radiator cap could lead to leakage of radiator fluid through its head gasket. Always make sure the radiator cap sits correctly and is tightly screwed on.
Flush the Radiator
Flushing refers to cleaning the radiator by removing all fluids from it and replacing with fresh water and coolant. Flushing helps rid radiators of built-up dirt, which could end up clogging it. You need to flush your radiator on a regular basis. This, however, varies depending on how frequently the car is driven. Most cars require annual flushing. Commercial cars under heavy daily use required more frequent flushes per year. You can keep track of radiator flush by having it done at the same time as any of your vehicles annual service like tire rotation.
Unclog Radiator Fins
Loose road debris, dirt and dead insects can eventually lead to clogging of radiator fins, which leads to restricted airflow through the radiator. You can clean radiator fins occasionally to prevent clogging. In addition, straighten out any tiny bends on the radiator fins, these also cause restricted airflow, and lower the cooling efficiency of the radiators.
Check the Thermostat
Thermostats in car radiators are valves that control the flow of water and coolant within the radiators depending on the temperature of the engine. Problems begin to occur when it is stuck in either the 'open' or the 'closed' position. If it is stuck in the closed position, it prevents the hot water from flowing back to the radiator for cooling, causing the radiator to overheat.
Share
