Cooling System Servicing: Description
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 37 other vehicles, including the 1986 Pontiac Sunbird, 1986 Pontiac Parisienne, 1986 Pontiac Grand Prix, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am, and 1986 Pontiac Firebird. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The basic liquid cooling system consists of a radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, pressure cap, heater (if equipped), various connecting hoses and cooling passages in the block and cylinder head. In addition, many cars use a fan clutch (incorporating a thermostatic control) or flexible fan blade. These reduce noise and power requirements at higher engine speeds.
Some models may use a thermostatic vacuum switch to advance ignition timing in the event of overheating. Most models use a coolant recovery system to prevent loss of anti-freeze.