1. Checking the condition of the components of the cooling system should be carried out after the power unit has completely cooled down (at least three hours after the engine has stopped).
2. Remove the cover from the radiator, for which first turn it to the left to the first stop. If a hiss is heard indicating excessive pressure in the system, wait for it to stop, then press the cap with the palm of your hand down and continue turning to the left until it is completely released. Rinse the cover thoroughly inside and out with clean water. Also clean the radiator filler neck. All traces of corrosion must be completely removed from the surfaces to be cleaned. The coolant in the system must be relatively clear. If the fluid is rust colored, the system must be flushed and refilled with fresh mix (see Maintenance of the cooling system (emptying, rinsing and filling) (every 48,000 km or every 24 months)). If the fluid level does not reach the top, add a little more mixture of the required composition to the radiator (see Checking fluid levels (every 400 km or weekly)).
3. Carefully inspect the upper and lower radiator hoses along with the smaller diameter interior heating hoses located between the power unit and the bulkhead of the engine compartment. Inspect hoses along their entire length and replace defective components if cracks, bulges or signs of aging are found. Small cracks are usually easier to see when squeezing the hose (see accompanying illustration). Regardless of condition, hoses should be replaced approximately every two years.
4. Check that all hoses are securely fastened to their fittings / nozzles. Coolant leaks usually show up as rusty or white streaks on surrounding surfaces. If the hoses are fixed to the fittings / pipes with twist-type clamps, it will be useful to replace the latter with more reliable worm or screw clamps.
5. Blow out with compressed air, or with a soft brush, remove old leaves, insect remains and other debris from the gaps between the radiator heat exchanger plates. Take care not to damage the soft plates of the heat exchanger and do not cut your fingers on their sharp edges.
6. Every second check, as well as at the first signs of malfunction of the cooling system, check the radiator cap with pressure. If there is no suitable equipment at hand, contact a service station for help.