Thursday, 28 June 2012

Cooling systems

Tools required:

Cooling system Hydrometer, cooling system pressure tester (Safety boots, safety glasses and overalls)

Following the manufactures workbook we tested the condition of the cooling system

1.      First off we visually checked the condition of the radiator, radiator tubes and fins, condition of hoses, radiator cap. Looking for any leaks, splits, cracks or any other damage.

2.      Our radiator had damaged fins and tubes which caused radiator fluid to slowly leak. Our hoses and connections were in good condition.

3.      Next we used a hydrometer to check the coolant Antifreeze. Our coolant had a 127 degrees Celsius which was within manufactures specification and our freezing point was at -34 degrees Celsius which was above manfucters specification.

4.      We then tested the thermostat, dipping it in boiling water making sure that it opens at the right temperature. Ours did not open at all which was an automatic fail. A good thermostat should open at 88 degrees Celsius.

5.      The radiator cap pressure was checked using a pressure tester. The cap should release pressure at 13psi which ours did not so the cap was not serviceable

6.      We also used another pressure tester to check the cooling system for leaks. We put 13psi into the radiator with the cap on and checked for any leaks around the radiator tanks, heater hoses, heater core, cylinder head gasket, frost plugs and water pump. We found our Radiator tank did have a slight leak in it due to the damaged fins and tubes.

7.      A inspection of the fan belt was then taken place. Rotating the engine looking for signs of un even wear, cracks/damage and checking for polished sides and signs of slipping. Our belt was in good condition and did not need replacing.

8.      Next we checked the water pump pulley for any play and making sure the bearing didn’t make a noise while spinning which would indicate faults. There was no play in the water pump, the bolts were tight and there was no noise why spinning it, no further action was needed.

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