RADIATOR CARE

Hawera Star, Volume L, 25 October 1930, Page 12

RADIATOR CARE

COUNTERACTING RUST. Correct thermal efficiency in an engine is a most important factor when considered in its relation to general performance, and with this end in view, it is a wise plan to inspect the cooling system periodically. Water is circulated in most modern cars by pump, and is kept in constant movement, when the motor is running, by a centrifugal rotor driven by a shaft from the timing ease. Auxiliary to most cooling systems is the fan, either gear or belt driven, which creates a convex draught, and should be kept under constant observation. Care should be taken to see that the belt drive (where such is used) is properly tensioned; it should bo fairly taut, and the fan blades, if made of light-gauge metal, inclined to give the strongest possible draught. Of course, it must be understood that aluminium fan blades cannot be bent. See also that the belt is quite clean and free from all grease and oil. Every now and then it is a good plan, to oil the pump spindle with a little thick lubricant; or, if grease nipples are provided, give these attention. Dry glands also cause a pump to leak along the drive shaft, and should this be ol>- 1 served, it must be dealt with at once.i

Briefly, the cause is that the wick packing is burnt out through inattention or lack of grease. The gland box should be removed, grease inserted, and the box screwed —not tightly—back into place. If the packing is not too far gone the leak should then cease. Gland boxes are hexagonal in shape and situated on each side of the pump. Clean, clear water is another important factor, and care must be exercised when possible in this respect. Muchof the scale and rust accumulation in water-jackets and radiators lias . its origin in dirt and neglect. A little foresight will save a lot of trouble, for when honey-combing becomes clogged and percolation cannot take place rust scon causes leaks that are both costly and difficult to repair. Any

leak should invariably be promptly mended, but these ought to be rare. A very good tip is to pour about half-a-pint of lubricating oil into the radiator of a, new car; tin's will have the effect of counteracting any tendency to rust and does no harm. Never put cold water into a hot and empty radiator. This is a very injurious practice, and is liable to crack the - cylinder jacket or head

Elver v three months—or more frequently if the water appears rusty—flush out the cooling system, In order to do this properly drive the car on to a well-drained surface, preferably after a long run, when the water is well heated, and with the motor turning over fairly fast, remove the drain plug or open the tap at the base of the radiator. At the same time insert a running hose .in the filling aperture. It- is surprising how much rust, sludge and scale will be dislodged by this process, which can be continued until clear water runs out —• a matter of, usually, a few minutes. The drain cock may then be closed and the radiator filled to capacity. If these simple directions are followed they will amply repay all those who care to bear them in mind.