Maintenance -
Cooling system
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Cooling system The coolant level is visible through the transparent walls of the degas tank. The coolant should be level with the ‘Max’ mark when the engine is cold. DO NOT OVERFILL. Allow engine to cool down until the back of the hand can be held against the cylinder head without discomfort before removing cap. Only turn the cap to the first stop so that pressure in the system is released then wait a few seconds before removing the cap completely. Never use cold water to top-up the cooling system of a hot engine, particularly if the coolant level is very low. This could cause serious damage to the engine. The system should only be topped up with a water / anti-freeze mix as specified below. Ensure that the pressure cap is re-tightened correctly before running engine. After two years the cooling system must be flushed out and coolant replaced. When the coolant is replaced or if a high quantity of coolant has to be used for topping up then care must be taken to ensure the system is free from air. To do this remove the top end of the top hose and add coolant through the degas tank until it can be seen that the top hose and radiator are completely full. Re-fit the hose and top up to the correct level. The engine should then be run (with the cab heater turned on) until it reaches normal working temperature and then switched off and allowed to cool and the water level re-checked. |
1. Filler cap
Cylinder block drain bung |
The engine block drain bung is situated just above the starter motor. (see diagram above right)
Coolant capacity is approximately 2 gal (9.5l). Either use Ford motor car antifreeze (this is coloured pink and a 40% solution should be used for topping up) or a proprietary antifreeze meeting European specification ESD-M79B49-A Please check with your supplier that the antifreeze you use meets this specification to ensure full warranty cover.
A fine mesh screen is fitted in front of the radiator and should be kept clean at all times. It can be cleaned by brushing lightly or blowing out with an airline.
Ensure that the radiator core is also kept clean - inspect it regularly but take care if using a pressure washer to clean it - it is very easy to flatten the fins which will reduce air flow through it.
For late season spraying it is recommended that the optional crop deflector be fitted to the front of the PHANTOM to not only reduce crop damage but also to avoid blocking of the radiator grill/screen with pollen etc.
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