Having a properly working vehicle is one of the necessities
of life when living on The Gold Coast, unfortunately an overheating radiator is
an all too common problem.
Under normal conditions, the cooling system in a new vehicle
shouldn’t need any more than normal regularly servicing, but as it starts to
age or with high mileage you will need to take your vehicle to be serviced by
mechanics that specialize in radiators on The Gold Coast more often.
These are five common causes of overheating:
1. A Leak In The Cooling System
Modern cooling systems operate under pressure, a small leak
can quickly force the cooling fluid out and allow air to enter causing an air
block or reduce the coolant to a level where it cannot cool sufficiently. Both
these will cause the system to overheat and possibly damage your engine.
Use only pure water with a quality chemical additive to stop
corrosion and prevent the water from freezing in very cold conditions.
The engine block is fitted with frost plugs which are
designed to pop open in the event that the liquid in the engine freezes and
expands. This will stop it damaging your motor. Unfortunately, these and other
areas of the engine that come into contact with the cooling liquid can corrode
if there is not the proper anti corrosive ingredients added to the cooling
liquid.
In an emergency, you can refill the radiator with fresh
water only, but it should be replaced as soon as possible with the correct
coolant mixture. Sometimes in very cold a low quality coolant additive will
thicken and cause a blockage so it’s advisable to always use a high quality
coolant.
2. Blockage in the Cooling System Reducing
Circulation
A stone hitting the radiator can cause some of the fine
pipes and fins that help the heat disperse to become restricted reducing the
flow. If the proper coolant has not been used, then corrosion can cause
deposits to build up and also restrict the flow.
Using water with a high mineral content can also add to
deposits inside the engine and radiator reducing its cooling abilities
Another problem is a faulty thermostat which can restrict
flow. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant until the engine reaches
operating temperature, at which time it opens allowing the normal flow.
3. Low Oil Level
Oil is a vital part of the engine cooling system and removes
about 70% of the engines built up heat. Oil also lubricates all the moving
parts which reduces friction and in turn stops excessive heat build up.
4. Damaged or Broken Water Pump
Water pumps can break down with age or wear and need to be
checked during each service by mechanics servicing radiators on the Gold Coast
5. Blocked Radiator Air Intake
The grill at the front of the vehicle and the outside of the
radiator needs to be kept clear and clean to allow for optimum air flow
People who regularly check their cooling system, especially
their radiators on The Gold Coast should have little overheating problems.
Always use a high quality anti corrosive additive and keep your engine oil
topped up to avoid overheating. Ask your mechanic to check your thermostat,
water pump and fan belt.
