Paneltech Motors

TODAY IT'S A CHOOSEDAY! CHOOSE KNOWLEDGE .

DID YOU KNOW?
When the temperature light comes on as it is on the image attached, it indicates that your engine is overheating-running too hot. An engine should not overheat if the cooling system is in good condition; a faulty cooling system triggers the temperature light to come on.

WHAT TO DO
Stop the engine immediately! Trafficate and then pull over to the side of the road as soon as it is safe to do so, then shut off your engine and wait for things to cool down. The radiator contains hot water under very high pressure. Opening the cap on the radiator or a pressurized coolant reservoir could result in a serious accident. Nothing can be accomplished by opening the cap while the engine is still hot, so let your vehicle sit and cool off. Note that this usually takes a while.

After things have cooled down (wait at least half an hour or more), then you can open the radiator cap or reservoir and check the coolant level. Place a rag over the cap first, and slowly turn the cap until it stops at the first detent. This should allow residual pressure to be released. Wait until all pressure has been released before removing the cap the rest of the way.

Add water or coolant to the radiator or coolant reservoir if it is low. Actually, you should add premixed coolant or a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water to maintain the a perfect freezing, boilover and corrosion protection.

WHAT IF YOU DON’T STOP

If you keep driving an engine that is overheating, it can cause serious damage. The engine may start to knock (caused by detonation), which in turn can cause piston, ring and head gasket damage. As the internal parts of the engine expand from the excessive heat, clearances may be reduced to the point where metal-to-metal contact occurs. Valve stems may gall and stick, and the pistons and camshaft might scuff or seize.

Severe overheating also creates tremendous thermal stress in the head(s) and block. This, in turn, may lead to cracking and/or warpage. This is a common problem with overhead cam engines that have aluminum heads.

If the above does not help, visit our workshop for assistance at No. 149 Northway Rd Prospect Waterfalls Harare Zimbabwe.