Why do we care about our belts and hoses?

–They are essential to the cooling, air conditioning and charging system, and the engine.  It is important to replace these routinely so you don’t breakdown and possibly get stranded somewhere.

What do these do?

–The timing belt keeps the crankshaft and camshaft mechanically synchronized to maintain engine timing.  Serpentine, V-belt or fan belt (belts on the outside of the engine), they all transmit power from the front of the engine to accessories that need to be driven, ie… the air conditioning, the charging system and fans.

Radiator and heat hoses carry coolant to and from the engine, radiator and heater core.  If your hoses are bad, cracked, this can cause leaks which can in return drain the coolant from the vehicle causing it to over-heat.  For those of you in the desert land, that happens quick and not only is your car hot but you are as well as you wait for a tow. =(

Typical Wear and Tear:

–Key Items that affect the replacement intervals for the belt and hoses.

• Vehicle age
• Mileage
• Belt tension
• Electrolytic corrosion
• Oil Contamination
• Failed hose clamps

Symptoms:

• Squeaking noise from under the hood during start-up or operation
• Coolant leaks
• Dashboard light will illuminate
• A/C system may fail
• Engine over-heating

Be aware of what your vehicle is doing and what is going on in the engine.  Be proactive not reactive when it comes to maintaining your engine.

Thank you to the Care Car Council for the car care guide. (This is where the Diva gets her helpful knowledge).

Diesel Diva