Cub Cadet 3208 Operator's Manual page 32

Engine Cooling System
This engine is equipped with a highly
efficient pressurized cooling system
using a thermostat to maintain an
optimum operating
Coolant bypasses
thermostat when cold until operating
temperature is attained. If the coolant
temperature becomes too high, a
thermoswitch on the engine activates
the temperature indicator lamp to alert
the operator of a cooling problem. the
engine must be stopped immediately if
the warning light illuminates.
Coolant absorbs excessive heat from
the engine and transfers the heat to
the air surrounding the radiator. If the
coolant level becomes low, the engine
overheats and severe damage may
result. Use only coolant containing
corrosion and rust inhibitors made
specifically for aluminum engines and
radiators. Only dilute coolant with
distilled water in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions to prevent
freezing in the lowest anticipated
ambient temperature. Do not use tap
water to dilute coolant. Tap water
contains minerals which cause scalling
in the engine and the radiator coolant
passages. System efficiency will be
greatly reduced over time. Severe
engine damage may result.
Cold Weather Operation
If the lowest ambient temperature falls
below 32°F, use a permanent type of
antifreeze to protect
system from freezing. Freezing may
result in severe engine and radiator
damage. Permanent
antifreeze contain ethylene glycol and
corrosion and rust inhibitors. Dilute
antifreeze with distilled
accordance with manufacturer's
instructions.
Hot Weather Operation
If the lowest ambient temperature will
not fall below 32°F, distilled water with
corrosion and rust inhibitor additives is
temperature.
the recommended coolant. Although
the closed
the boiling point of an antifreeze
solution is higher than that of water,
the ability to transfer heat is reduced.
As a result the engine will run cooler
with conditioned water.
Radiator Hoses
Check radiator hoses for hardening,
cracking or swelling after every 200
hours of operation. The pressurized
cooling system will blow a hose that is
not installed properly. Tighten hose
clamps securely.
Checking Engine Coolant
WARNING:
to remove the radiator cap
when the system is hot. Allow
the system to cool and loosen
the cap slightly to relieve any
excess
removing cap completely.
Make it a rule to check the coolant
level before every operation. Never
use dirty or salt water as a coolant. Be
sure to
pressure cap after checking coolant.
• Remove the radiator cap. See
Figure 27 on page 29 for location of
radiator cap.
the cooling
- Turn
counterclockwise to the first
types of
stop and wait a few seconds.
- Push down on the cap and turn
counterclockwise until the cap
water in
stops.
- Lift cap off.
32
It is dangerous
pressure before
securely tighten radiator
the radiator cap