ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
– 172 – Y53-6007 (R10/06)
ELC Condition (Contamination and Inhibitor Concentra-
tion)
Perform a visual inspection of the ELC. It should have no
cloudiness or floating debris. Determine the chemical
inhibitor concentration level by using an ELC-specific test
kit or test strips. Inhibitor concentration level determines
corrosion protection. If you are concerned about possible
coolant quality, contamination, or mechanical problems,
submit a coolant sample for analysis. Improper mainte
-
nance may cause coolant degradation and could result in
damage to the cooling system and engine components.
Consult your dealer or the ELC manufacturer’s represen
-
tative for recommended ELC test kits, test strips, and lab-
oratory sample procedures.
ELC Extender
Add ELC extender if necessary at the maintenance inter-
val under “Cooling” on page 131.
Coolant Filter
If your vehicle came with a non-chemical filter (“blank fil-
ter”), replace it only with a blank filter at the interval speci-
fied in the “Preventive Maintenance Schedule” on
page 119. Never use filters that contain SCAs in an ELC-
filled system.
Topping Off
WARNING! Removing the fill cap on a hot
engine can cause scalding coolant to spray
out and burn you badly. If the engine has been
in operation within the previous 30 minutes,
be very careful in removing the fill cap. Pro
-
tect face, hands, and arms against escaping
fluid and steam by covering the cap with a
large, thick rag. Do not try to remove it until
the surge tank cools down if you see any
steam or coolant escaping. In any situation,
remove the cap very slowly and carefully. Be
ready to back off if any steam or coolant
begins to escape.
NOTE: If frequent topping off is necessary and
there are no visible signs of coolant leaks when
the engine is cold, check for leaks with the engine
operating at normal temperature.
WARNING! Handle coolant and antifreeze
carefully. Ethylene glycol antifreeze is poison-
ous. Store in original fluid container only, and
always keep out of reach of children.
To Next Page
Loading...
