Automobile Engine Cooling System An overview of the parts, functions, repairs, and service of an automobile engine cooling system. At the end of this presentation, you will be asked a series of questions to see how much you remember Automotive Engine Cooling System and Parts The engine cooling system is vital for maintaining the optimal temperature of an automobile engine. It prevents the engine from overheating, which can cause damage and lead to breakdowns. Understanding the parts and functions of the cooling system is essential for diagnosing issues and performing necessary repairs. Components of the Cooling System ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Radiator: The radiator cools down the coolant by dissipating heat through the fins. Water Pump: The water pump circulates the coolant throughout the engine and radiator. Thermostat: The thermostat regulates the coolant flow and controls the engine temperature. Radiator Cooling Fan: The fan helps cool the radiator by blowing air over it. Coolant: The coolant absorbs heat from the engine and cools it down. Hoses: Carry the engine coolant from place to place Recovery/Expansion Tank: Tank for holding coolant as it heats and expands Coolant “Coolant” is a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze.The coolant absorbs heat from the engine and cools it down. No coolant or low coolant level could cause the engine to overheat. Check regularly. Radiator Hoses; Upper and Lower Carry the hot and cooled engine coolant to and from the engine through the water pump and radiator. Check regularly, leaky hoses could cause the engine to overheat. Radiator ● The radiator cools down the coolant by dissipating heat through the fins. This, and the hoses are the most visible parts of the system. Check regularly, clogged fins or a damaged, leaky radiator could cause the engine to overheat. Radiator pressure cap The cooling system is under pressure at operating temperature and we use a pressurized cap to stabilize the temperature and raise the boiling point of the coolant mixture. It is a closed system and requires a pressurized cap to keep all the coolant inside the system. Coolant Reservoir or Overflow Tank/Expansion tank/Recovery Tank All designed to safely expand the capability of the pressurized system when it might get a little too hot, overfilled, or simply need more room for expansion. Expansion tanks have a pressure cap directly on them. Overflow or reservoir cans just have a regular plastic cap that is not under pressure. Water Pump: The water pump circulates the coolant throughout the engine and radiator. Thermostat ● The thermostat regulates the coolant flow and controls the engine temperature. Radiator Fan The fan helps in cooling the radiator by blowing air over it, or pulling air through it. Heater Core/Heater hoses/Heater valve Engine coolant (usually warm) is sent to a smaller radiator called a heater core. The warm engine coolant warms it up and a small fan is used to blow air over it which gets hot and comes out of the vents in your car. The flow to the heater core is controlled by a valve connected to the heater controls in your car also. Radiator Fan Switch and Fan Clutch The Radiator Fan Switch is used in vehicles that use an electric fan, it can be a manual switch or an automatic switch which would activate the fan at a certain temperature (most newer cars) A toggle switch can also be used in a custom application A Fan Clutch is a mechanical connection between the engine and a fan blade that could engage or disengage from the fan based on underhood temperatures. Cooling System Functions Preventing Overheating: By removing excess heat, it prevents the engine from overheating. Maintaining Optimal Temperature: The cooling system keeps the engine at an ideal operating temperature. 01 05 02 Heat Dissipation: It dissipates the excess heat generated by the engine. Preventing Freezing: In cold conditions, the system prevents the coolant from freezing and damaging the engine. 04 03 Lubrication: The coolant lubricates various components, reducing friction, corrosion, and wear. Common Repairs and Services ● ● ● ● ● Coolant Flush: Regular flushing and replacement of coolant help maintain system performance. Thermostat Replacement: A faulty thermostat can cause temperature imbalances and should be replaced. Water Pump Replacement: A worn out water pump can result in coolant leakage and inadequate circulation. Radiator Repair: Radiators may develop leaks or clogs and require repair or replacement. Fan Replacement: A malfunctioning fan can lead to insufficient cooling and engine overheating. Diagnosing Cooling System Issues Unusual Noises: Strange noises from the cooling system may indicate a faulty component, such as a fan or water pump. Coolant Leaks: Visible coolant leaks may indicate a damaged hose, radiator, or water pump. 01 05 Coolant Discoloration: Discolored or contaminated coolant may suggest internal engine issues. 02 04 Low Coolant Level: A low coolant level can cause inadequate cooling and lead to overheating. 03 Engine Overheating: If the engine temperature rises above normal, there may be an issue with the cooling system. Exit ticket questions; please close your chromebooks and take out a sheet of scratch paper. I suggest ripping a piece of paper in half and sharing. 1. Name one part of the engine cooling system. 2. What does the part you named in number 1 actually do? 3. Name one issue that could cause your car to overheat.
