NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions con-
trol systems can result in civil penalties
being assessed against you.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunc-
tioning engine operation, a scorching odor may
suggest severe and abnormal catalyst over-
heating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn off
the engine and allow it to cool. Service, includ-
ing a tune-up to manufacturer’s specifications,
should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter
damage:
•Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the
ignition, when the transmission is in gear and
the vehicle is in motion.
•Do not try to start the engine by pushing or
towing the vehicle.
•Do not idle the engine with any spark plug
wires disconnected or removed, such as
when diagnostic testing, or for prolonged
periods during very rough idle or malfunction-
ing operating conditions.Cooling System
WARNING!
•When working near the radiator cooling
fan, disconnect the fan motor lead or turn
the ignition switch to the OFF position. The
fan is temperature controlled and can start
at any time the ignition switch is in the ON
position.
•You or others can be badly burned by hot
engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from
your radiator. If you see or hear steam
coming from under the hood, do not open
the hood until the radiator has had time to
cool. Never try to open a cooling system
pressure cap when the radiator is hot.
Coolant Checks
Check engine coolant (antifreeze) protection
every 12 months (before the onset of freezing
weather, where applicable). If the engine cool-
ant (antifreeze) is dirty or rusty in appearance,
the system should be drained, flushed, and
refilled with fresh engine coolant (antifreeze).Check the front of the A/C condenser for any
accumulation of bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty, clean
by gently spraying water from a garden hose
vertically down the face of the condenser.
Check the coolant recovery bottle tubing for
brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, and tight-
ness of the connection at the bottle and radiator.
Inspect the entire system for leaks.
Cooling System – Drain, Flush, And Refill
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or
contains a considerable amount of sediment,
clean and flush with a reliable cooling system
cleaner. Follow with a thorough rinsing to re-
move all deposits and chemicals. Properly dis-
pose of old engine coolant (antifreeze).
Selection Of Coolant
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine
Parts” in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further
information.
263
