Lotus 2005 Elise, Owner'S Handbook Manual

Page: 109 / 205

As a precaution, every week when the engine is completely
COLD, and without disturbing the filler cap, check that the
level of coolant in the translucent tank is between the ‘FULL’
and ‘LOW’ marks moulded on the front of the tank. If topping
up is required, wait until the coolant has fully cooled before
turning the cap a quarter turn counterclockwise and allowing
any remaining pressure to escape. Only then may the cap be
completely unscrewed.
In order to maintain protection from freezing damage and
metal corrosion, use only an approved coolant mixture (see
below) to top up the tank to the ‘FULL’ mark. Refit the cap, and
turn clockwise until the leg on the cap locates in the slot at the
front of the tank.
NOTICE: If the cap is removed when the engine is warm, the
coolant may boil and a small coolant loss may occur. The com-
pletely cold header tank level should be checked at the first
subsequent opportunity.
Cooling Fans : Two cooling fans are fitted below the radiator in
the air intake duct. The fans are energised at high coolant tem-
peratures, or when the air conditioning (if fitted) is selected. The
fans will also run if certain types of engine fault are detected, and
may operate during a 20 minute period following ignition switch
off to prevent ‘hot soak’ boiling. An electric coolant circulation
pump may also be heard running during this period.
WARNING:
Keep hands, tools and clothing away from the radiator
cooling fan area, as personal injury could result from the
fans starting up without warning.
At service intervals, the air duct and matrices of the engine
cooling radiator, a.c. condenser and oil coolers, should be
checked externally for clogging by insects, leaves or other debris,
and if necessary, a water jet used to clear the finning. Take care
not to damage or distort the delicate finning of the radiator or
the cooling performance will be degraded.
Anti-Freeze/Corrosion Inhibitor
It is most important that the correct coolant specification is
used in order to inhibit boiling and protect the engine and heat
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