Andy K's family and travel gear were in the car. Everyone was anxious to leave on their extended vacation when Andy had a last minute thought. He ran back into the house to shut off the water supply line to the washer, only to discover a huge bulge in the hose. It almost certainly would have burst while they were away, allowing a prolonged flood of hot water.

Andy's preventive measure reminded him of another rubber hose that might have hampered their vacation had he not found it in time, a radiator hose that was in marginal condition. He had taken the car to the shop for a complete "physical" and discovered several things that might put him and his family at risk.

Whether on the road or driving around home, you want to know your vehicle's cooling system parts are not running on borrowed time. Coolant loss due to a leaking hose or connection can lead to some very expensive trouble including major engine damage. To help prevent such a crisis, the Car Care Council suggests a thorough visual inspection plus a pressure check (which can be done by most service dealers). Then flush the system and install new antifreeze.

The Council offers this cooling system check list:

___ HOSES ___ CONNECTIONS

Soft? Hose clamps secure?

Brittle? Drain valve dry?

Bulging? Freeze plugs secure?

___ DRIVE BELT (S) ___ RADIATOR

Glazed? Internal rust or corrosion?

Cracked? Seeping?

Frayed? Mountings secure?

Correct tension? Pressure test OK?

___ PRESSURE CAP ___ WATER PUMP

Valve and spring OK? Bearing condition?

Seal condition? Leakage at gasket or shaft?

Tight fit?

Pressure test OK?

___ OTHER

Thermostat functioning normally?

Fan clutch engaging and disengaging properly?

Electric fan (on systems so equipped) functioning properly?

Provided as a public service by the Car Care Council