COOLING – Opel Kadett

The engine cooling system is of the forced type, with belt driven centrifugal pump (engine 1.2) and toothed belt (engines 1,3 and 1,6 D). In addition, the system includes: cooler, expansion tank, thermostat and electric fan. The cab heating system is connected to the engine cooling system.

Checking the rubber hoses
The cooling system rubber hoses must not be hardened, cracked and porous. Each wire must immediately return to its original shape after being squeezed by hand. Rigid hoses must be replaced. To do this, loosen the clamp and pull both ends of the conduit off the connectors. If the top of the system is replaced, it only needs to be drained partially. This fluid should be collected in a vessel for reuse.

Before installing a new hose, clean the connectors and, if necessary, lubricate with glycerin (grease must not be used). Pay attention to the selection of the appropriate cable diameter. The clamp band must not be tightened beyond a certain limit.

Coolant replacement

The cooling system may only be filled with antifreeze, which has anti-corrosive properties.

■ Unscrew the cap of the expansion tank.

■ Loosen the clamps at the lower radiator and upper thermostat housing. Pull the wires.

■ Collect the leaking liquid in a container.

When filling the system, pour the fluid into the expansion tank. Its level must be about 1 cm exceed the line with the inscription ,,Cold” on the tank In order to deaerate the system, use: in the engine 1,2 disconnect the cable from the heater from the head, in the engine 1,3 unscrew the temperature sensor, and in the engine 1.6 D Remove the deaeration screw located in the thermostat housing. The fluid is poured in until it comes out at the venting point. With the air vent closed, fill the system completely and screw on the expansion tank cap. Finally, start the engine and check the system for leaks.