Maintining Air Cooled VW Performance Parts

The key to longevity in a Volkswagen entails the proper maintenance of the air cooled vw performance parts. Like the human body the Volkswagen will not tolerate even brief overheating for very long before all systems shut down. Therefore it is essential that each component be properly cared for. In the human body overheating is prevented by constant hydration, replenishing the water lost through the sweat process. This is accomplished by the fluids circulating throughout the body to maintain the appropriate core body temperature.

The Volkswagen’s engine functions much the same way. The process is as simplistic as it complex and all components of the cooling system depend on each other for maximum performance. The breakdown of one will place additional stress on the others resulting in a breakdown in the air-cooled system.

To get a better understanding of how these systems work in a synchronized fashion with each other it is first necessary to identify the system components and their individual functions.

Volkswagen Water Pump

The water pump is the “heart” of the Volkswagen cooling system. It is the component that keeps things moving. Like the heart forcing blood through the body, the Volkswagen water pump circulates the coolant through the entire air cooled system. The basic pump may be either gear driven or belt-driven, and occasionally a secondary electric pump is installed to improve the efficiency of the cooling process.

Vital to the pump’s operation is the belt, more commonly referred to as the timing belt. In newer model cars the belt is known as the serpentine belt, off of which all of the engine components run internally including the water pump. In older model cars the flat belt or chains run off the main crankshaft pulley

Routine maintenance schedule includes replacement of the coolant and replacement of the timing belt or and/or tensioner at intervals recommended by the manufacturer.

Volkswagen Hoses

Hoses are an integral part of the air cooled Volkswagen cooling system piping. These need to be checked regularly and replaced as needed.

Volkswagen Radiator, Thermostat and Sensors

The component cooling parts of the Volkswagen air cooled system all function independently of the engine. These include all coolant temperature sensors, the radiator and expansion tank cap, thermostat cooling fan or fans and the fan clutch. The “sending” unit sends signals to the Volkswagen’s electronic systems and maintains control over engine cooling.

The thermostat is a spring loaded valve that adjusts from open to closed based on the temperature of the coolant flowing it. An indication that something may be wrong is a fluctuation between a high and then a normal reading or a consistently low reading.

The radiator or expansion tank cap works much in the same way as the thermostat in that it reacts to system pressure. Its function is to check radiator or expansion tank pressure according to factory standards.

Although the electric fan can function alone, an auxiliary mechanical fan is a component found on the front-wheel drive Volkswagen and is controlled by a temperature sensor.

Internal and external cleaning of these air cooled Volkswagen performance parts on a regular basis is the best maintenance and the same holds true for checking and replacing all parts at the manufacture recommended time or mileage limits. Adherence to the maintenance program for the air cooled Volkswagen performance parts will keep your car in good running condition.

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