Safety With the Cooling System



Keep these 8 safety precautions in mind when working with the cooling system.

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1.  When working on the cooling system, remember
     that at operating temperature, the coolant is
     extremely hot, approximately 220 plus degrees
     Fahrenheit.  Touching the coolant or spilling the
     coolant on the body can cause serious injury.

2.  When replacing the water pump or thermostat, any
     coolant spilled on the floor can be very slippery.
     Immediately wipe up any coolant that spills to
     reduce or eliminate the chance of injury.

3.  Always wear proper clothing and eye protection
     when using coolant additives to remove silicate
     and calcium deposits.  They may be very corrosive.

4.  When working on the fan, water pump, or belts,
     make sure the engine ignition system is off, or the
     battery is disconnected, or both. 




Back to Safety
 

5.  When working on the cooling system and running
     the engine, always keep fingers, tools, and clothing
     away from the moving fan.

6.  Never remove the pressure cap when the engine
     is hot.  Removing the pressure cap releases the
     pressure on the cooling system.  This reduces the
     boiling point of the coolant. The coolant will then
     boil violently and burn or injure a person's hands
     or face.

7.  Keep antifreeze away from children and animals. 
     Antifreeze has a sweet taste, and, if consumed
     can lead to death in as little as 24 hours.  If
     antifreeze is ingested, immediately contact a
     doctor, hospital, or poison control center.

8.  Always dispose of used antifreeze in an approved
     container.  Never pour used antifreeze down the
     water drain.  To dispose of antifreeze, take it to a
     recycling center (if one is available) or take it to
     local service garage for disposal.  Always check
     the local and state EPA requirements before
     disposal.