Coolant: Description and Operation

Cooling System
The cooling system's function is to maintain an efficient engine operating temperature during all engine speeds and operating conditions. The cooling system is designed to re cove approximately one-third of the heat produced by the burning of the air-fuel mixture. When the engine is cold, the coolant does not flow to the radiator until the thermostat opens This allows zinc engine to warm quickly.

Cooling Cycle
Coolant is drawn from the radiator outlet and into the water pump inlet by the water pump. Coolant will there be pumped through the water pump outlet and into the engine block. In the engine block, the coolant circulates through the water pump outlet and into the engine block. In the engine block. the coolant circulates through the water jackets surrounding the cylinders, where it absorbs heat.
Some coolant is also pumped from the water pump to the heater core, then back to the water pump. This provides the passenger compartment with heat and defrost.

The coolant is then forced through the cylinder head gasket openings and into the cylinder heads. In the cylinder heads the coolant flows through the water jackets surrounding the combustion chambers and valve seats, where it absorbs additional heat.

Coolant is also directed to the throttle body. There it circulates through passages in the casting. During initial start up, the coolant assists in warming the throttle body.

During normal operating temperatures, the coolant assists in regulating the throttle body temperature.

Operation of the cooling system requires proper functioning of all cooling system components. The cooling system consists of the following components:

Coolant
The engine coolant is a solution made up of a 50-50 mixture of DEX-COOL and suitable drinking water. The coolant solution carries excess heat away from the engine to the radiator, where the heat is dissipated to the atmosphere.