Your engine is a machine in motion, converting the explosive energy from gasoline or diesel fuel into reciprocating motion. In turn, the crankshaft converts that reciprocating motion into rotary motion. Nearly everything else in the engine is rotary, such as the camshafts and water pump. Engine accessories, such as the air conditioning compressor and alternator, aren’t driven directly by the crankshaft, but by drive belts, sometimes more than one. V-belts used to be more common, but now engines typically drive everything off one or two multi-V or “serpentine” belts.

Additionally, the engine generates a lot of heat. Some heat is good because it helps to vaporize the fuel faster and oil flows better when warm. On the other hand, excessive heat can be damaging to the engine. To remove this excess heat, the engine cooling system uses a water pump to drive coolant through a network of hoses and radiators. The heater core, a small radiator inside the cabin, provides heat for the passengers.

How Can In ’N Out Car Services Help?

It is recommended to have belts and hoses examined every 3,000 miles or with every oil change. A belt and hose pipe evaluation checks for:

• Glazing, cracking, peeling, and softening of belts

• Proper tensioning

• Appropriate drive pulley alignment

• Punctures and cracks

• Hardening, cracking, and softening of hose pipes

• Loosened or worn clamps

• Issues with cooling system pressure