The engine of a vehicle works best at a high temperature. When it is cold, components wear out easily, produces more pollutants, and becomes less efficient.
The main function of the cooling system is to allow the engine to warm up as quickly as possible, and then to maintain a constant engine temperature. It ensures that the engine runs at its optimum operating temperature. If the cooling system or any part of it fails, it will overheat the engine, which can lead to many serious issues.
What if your engine’s cooling system does not work properly? Overheating can cause your engine’s cylinder head gaskets to explode and even crack engine blocks if the problem is serious enough. And all this heat must be fought. If the heat cannot be removed from the engine, the pistons are literally welded to the inside of the cylinders. Then you just must throw the engine away and buy a new one. So, you should take care of your engine cooling system and ensure it is always working properly.
Main components of a cooling system
Radiator - Usually made of aluminium, this component of your cooling system acts as a heat exchanger for the engine. It exchanges the heat of the hot water coming from the engine with the ambient air. It also has a drainage plug, an inlet port, a sealed cover, and an outlet port.
Water pump - Sends the fluid back to the cylinder block, heater core, and cylinder head when the coolant cools after being in the radiator. Eventually, the liquid enters the radiator again, where it cools down again.
Thermostat - Acts as a valve for the coolant and only allows it to pass through the radiator when a certain temperature has been exceeded. It contains paraffin wax, which expands at a certain temperature and opens at that temperature. The cooling system uses a thermostat to regulate the normal operating temperature of the internal combustion engine. When the engine reaches standard operating temperature, the thermostat is triggered. Then the coolant can enter the radiator.
Other components
Freeze plugs -Steel plugs designed to seal openings in the cylinder block and cylinder heads created during the casting process. In cold weather, they can pop out if there is no frost protection.
Timing head/cover gasket -Seals major engine parts. Prevents mixing of oil, antifreeze, and cylinder pressure.
Radiator overflow tank - A plastic tank that is usually installed next to the radiator and has an inlet connected to the radiator and one overflow hole. This is the same tank that you pour water into before driving.
Hoses - A series of rubber hoses connect the radiator to the engine through which the coolant flows. These hoses can also start leaking after years of use.