Chevrolet Corvette 1953 Operation Manual page 50

The 18 inch fan which is driven by a V-type belt at 9j lOths
engine speed, assures a constant flow of air through the
radiator and around the engine to aid in cooling the water.
The permanently lubricated centrifugal rype water pump
keeps lhe water circulating thereby constantly bringing
cooler water
to
the areas around the combustion and
exhaust chambers where most heat is generated. The ther·
mostat restricts the flow of water to tbe radiator until tbe
engine wanns up to normal operating temperature.
CHANGING TO ANTI-FREEZE
In selecting an 'anti·freeze solution for winter operation, the
local conditions and the type of service must be considered.
In any event
it
is very essential to make certain checks and
do certain things to 3tleast insure the anti·freeze remaining
in the cooling system. To be certain thal the solution will
not leak out and be lost entirely, resulting in Little or no
protection against freezing, or seep into the working parts
of the engine, the following procedure should be followed
in conditioning the system:
1. Drain the entire cooling system including the cylinder
block. If
considerable rust, scale, oil, or grease is present
in the water drained
OUl,
it
is
advisable to flush and
clean tbe system.
2. Tigbten all cylinder head bolts'n sequence as described
on page 41. Ami-freeze or water, mixed with engine
oil may foml sludge whicb will interfere with lubrica-
tion and in some cases may form varnish-like deposits
which will cause gumming and sticking of the moving
parts.
NOTE: Tightening cylinder head bolts may decrease
valve clearance. Check and adjusl valves if
necessary (See Valve Adjustment, page 41) .
3. Inspect the fan bell and adjust or replace if necessary
(See Fan
Belt
Adjustment, page.49).
4. Inspect all boses including heater hoses. If hoses are
collapsed, cracked or in any way indicate a rotted con-
dition on the inside, replacement should be
made. Care-
fully cbeck and tighten all hose clamps.
NOTE: Make sure that the vapor line connecting the
radiator top
tank
to the auxiliary rank does
nOt
sag between ends so as to permit water or
vapor to accumulate in this pocket and pre-
vent the transfer of air.
5. Check the thermostat. Make sure it does not stick open
or closed. The standard thermostat is rated at 145·. A
181· thermostat shoule! be installed wben permanent
anti-freeze is used.
6. Fill the cooling system witb the proper quantity of anti-
freeze and water according
La
[he instructions of
,hi'
47