6-3
CAUTION
The term “overspeed condition” is used when
engine speed (RPM) exceeds the maximum safe
limit. This can occur when the engine is driven
by the wheels during downhill driving or down-
shifting.
Persistent engine overspeed can cause an
engine breakdown.
This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine
coolant.
With the engine operating normally, the needle
should be in the center of the scale.
If the needle enters the red zone , the engine is
overheated. The coolant temperature warning
illuminates at this time. Pull off the road as soon as
it is safe to do so. Use the engine idle control to run
the engine at a speed slightly higher than normal
idle. If the vehicle has air conditioning, turn it off.
When the gauge needle comes down to near the
center of the scale, shut down the engine and per-
form the checks and corrective actions described
under “If the engine overheats” on this reference
page: P. 12-7
CAUTION
If the engine overheats, do not shut down the
engine right away. Let it run at a speed slightly
above normal idle and allow the engine to cool.
If the engine is shut down immediately after
stopping, the coolant temperature will rise
quickly and may cause the engine to seize.
Coolant temperature gauge
Z12503
<Manual transmission vehicles>
<Automatic transmission vehicles>