General Maintenance Information; Cooling System - Ford DSG-423 Operator's Handbook Manual

GENERAL MAINTENANCE INFORMATION

The following section outlines some aspects of general maintenance which will be
of value to the operator.

Cooling System

To obtain maximum engine service life, its operating temperature must be
maintained by an efficient cooling system.
CAUTION: Under no circumstances should the engine be started without liq-
uid in the cooling system. This may cause permanent damage to the engine.
CAUTION: The use of straight water as a coolant will cause permanent dam-
age to the engine.
Inspect the exterior of the radiator for obstructions, remove all bugs, dirt or foreign
material with a soft brush or cloth.
Use care to avoid damaging the fins. If available, use low pressure compressed air
or a stream of water in the opposite direction to normal airflow. Check all hoses and
connections for leaks. If any of the hoses are cracked, frayed, or feel spongy, they
should be replaced.
CAUTION: Never use a cold coolant mixture to top-up the radiator or degas
tank of a hot engine if the coolant level is very low; this could cause serious
engine damage.
The radiator or degas tank is equipped with a pressure cap. It is dangerous to
remove this when the system is very hot.
WARNING: NEVER REMOVE THE PRESSURE RELIEF CAP WHILE THE
ENGINE IS OPERATING OR WHEN THE COOLING SYSTEM IS HOT. MAY
CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY OR DAMAGE TO COOLING SYSTEM OR
ENGINE. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF HAVING SCALDING HOT COOLANT OR
STEAM BLOW OUT OF THE DEGAS BOTTLE WHEN REMOVING THE
PRESSURE RELIEF CAP, WAIT UNTIL THE ENGINE HAS COOLED DOWN TO
AT LEAST 40°C (110°F).
1. Wrap a thick cloth around the pressure relief cap and turn it slowly one-half turn
counterclockwise. Stepping back while the pressure is released from the
cooling system.
2. When you are sure all the pressure has been released, (still with a cloth) turn
counterclockwise and remove the pressure relief cap.
In territories where freezing conditions may occur, the coolant should consist of a
mixture of 50% plain water and 50% Motorcraft Premium Gold coolant, or
equivalent. This antifreeze contains additional corrosion inhibitors designed to
provide lasting protection for the engine.
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