General information
All vehicles covered in this manual use a sealed engine cooling system that includes a coolant pump (driven by means of a timing belt), aluminum cross flow radiator, electric fan (-s) coolant, thermostat, heater core and related connecting hoses and switches.
The system works as follows. Cold coolant from the bottom of the radiator passes through the bottom hose to the coolant pump, which drives it through the passages of the block and cylinder head and through the oil cooler (-s) (in the presence of). After cooling the cylinders, combustion chambers and valve seats, the coolant flows to the underside of the thermostat, which is closed in the initial phase. The coolant passes through the heater and returns through the cylinder block to the coolant pump.
When the engine is cold, the engine coolant only flows through the cylinder block, cylinder head and heater. When the coolant reaches the set temperature, the thermostat opens and coolant flows through the top hose to the radiator. As the coolant passes through the radiator, it is cooled by the flow of ram air as the vehicle moves forward. The action of the fan is added to the effect of air, if necessary (-ov) cooling. After reaching the bottom of the radiator, the coolant temperature decreases and the cycle repeats.
When the engine reaches normal operating temperature, the coolant expands and some of it is forced into the expansion tank. The coolant is collected in a reservoir and returned to the radiator when the system cools down.
Operation of the electric fan (-ov) cooling (located in front of the radiator) controlled by a thermostatic switch/sensor. At a predetermined coolant temperature, this switch activates the fan (-s).
Precautionary measures
Attention! Do not attempt to remove the expansion tank cap or touch any part of the cooling system when the engine is hot - you may be scalded. If you want to remove the expansion tank filler cap before the engine and radiator are completely cool (although it is not recommended), relieve pressure in the cooling system first. Cover the filler cap with a piece of thick cloth to prevent scalding, and slowly unscrew it until a hiss is heard. When the hissing stops (it means the pressure is off), slowly unscrew the cover to the end and remove it. If the hissing continues, wait until the hissing stops before unscrewing the cap completely. Always keep clear of the filler neck and be careful of your hands.
Attention! Do not allow antifreeze to come into contact with skin or body paintwork. Wash off splashes immediately with plenty of water. Never leave antifreeze in open containers or puddles in a garage driveway or on the garage floor. The pleasant smell of this substance may attract the attention of children and pets, but if swallowed, it can be fatal.
Attention! If the engine is hot, the electric cooling fan may start to rotate even when the engine is not running. Therefore, when working in the engine compartment, keep hands, hair, and loose clothing away from moving engine parts.
Attention! For information on precautions when working with models equipped with an air conditioning system, refer to paragraph 11.