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Radiator cap: replacement and selection

When and why it is necessary to replace radiator cap

Operational lifetime of this component is not specified by manufacturers. Necessity of radiator cap replacement occurs in case of jamming of its one or both valves. Also, a new part is installed if the sealing element loses its elasticity.

The main cause of component breakdown is engine overheating due to defectiveness of cooling system elements. Jamming of the valves often happens at soiling with emulsion. It can appear due to usage and mixing of various cooling liquid types.

Antifreeze leakage is noticeable at defect of the radiator cap. This can be noticed by specific smell and traces of liquid under the car. In some cases lack of cooling liquid in the system can lead to engine overheating, which will be indicated by the dashboard temperature gauge.

The procedure of radiator cap replacement should be performed on the cooled engine only. The component can be replaced on your own only if all the safety precautions are observed. The case is that due to high temperature of cooling liquid in the system there is a risk of burn wound during performing repair works.

How to select radiator cap

There are components of two types: with a pressure relief valve and without it. The parts with a pressure relief valve are able to dump excessive cooling system pressure. However, caps of the second type are usually cheaper.

Defect of the radiator cap can lead to breakdown of expensive car units. That is why you should give preference to parts of proven manufacturers. Durable and high-quality radiator caps can be found in the assortment of such well-known firms as Ashika, JapanParts, Nipparts, Blue print, AKS Dаsis, Triscan and others.

Consider diameter of the filler neck and valve during selection of the radiator cap. There should be working pressure value marked on the component. Pay attention that it is prohibited to install the parts, which have parameters, different from the one, noted in the car technical documentation. Otherwise there is high risk of defects appearance in the cooling system.