engine overheat CHEVROLET TRACKER 1999 2.G User Guide

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5-13 How to Add Coolant to the Coolant
Recovery Tank
If you haven't found a problem yet, but the coolant level
isn't at or above the FULL mark, add a 50/50 mixture of
clean, drinkable water and a proper coolant at the
coolant recovery tank. (See ªEngine Coolantº in the
Index for more information about the proper
coolant mixture.)
CAUTION:
Adding only plain water to your cooling system
can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other
liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper
coolant mixture will. Your vehicle's coolant
warning system is set for the proper coolant
mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture,
your engine could get too hot but you wouldn't
get the overheat warning. Your engine could
catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use
a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and a
proper coolant.
NOTICE:
In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the
engine, radiator, heater core and other parts.
Use the recommended coolant and the proper
coolant mixture.
JE±15±0008±X

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5-14
CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot
engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol
and it will burn if the engine parts are hot
enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine.
When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or
above the FULL mark, start your vehicle.
If the overheat warning continues, there's one more
thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant
mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling
system is cool before you do it.
CAUTION:
Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling
system can blow out and burn you badly. They
are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator
pressure cap
-- even a little -- they can come out
at high speed. Never turn the cap when the
cooling system, including the radiator pressure
cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and
radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to
turn the pressure cap.

Second Printing for Chevrolet Tracker Owner's Manual ± 1999
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5-28
If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud,
Ice or Snow
In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck, you will
need to spin the wheels, but you don't want to spin your
wheels too fast. The method known as ªrockingº can
help you get out when you're stuck, but you must
use caution.
CAUTION:
If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can
explode, and you or others could be injured. And,
the transmission or other parts of the vehicle can
overheat. That could cause an engine
compartment fire or other damage. When you're
stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don't
spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h) as shown
on the speedometer.
NOTICE:
Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your
vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels
too fast while shifting your transmission back
and forth, you can destroy your transmission.
For information about using tire chains on your vehicle,
see ªTire Chainsº in the Index.

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6-28
When the differential is cold, add enough lubricant to raise
the level to 1/2 inch (12 mm) below the filler plug hole.
When the differential is at operating temperature
(warm), add enough lubricant to raise the level to the
bottom of the filler plug hole.
What to Use
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what
kind of lubricant to use. See ªRecommended Fluids and
Lubricantsº in the Index.
Radiator Pressure Cap
JE±15±0026±X
NOTICE:
Your radiator cap is a 15.6 psi (110 kPa)
pressure
-type cap and must be tightly installed to
prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage
from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap
line up with the overflow tube on the radiator
filler neck.
When you replace your radiator pressure cap, an
ACDelco
cap is recommended.
Thermostat
Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat
in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the
flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant
reaches a preset temperature.
When you replace your thermostat, an ACDelco


thermostat is recommended.

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6-29
Engine Coolant
The following explains your cooling system and how to
add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with
engine overheating, see ªEngine Overheatingº in
the Index.
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and the
proper coolant will:

Give freezing protection down to
-33F (-36C).

Give boiling protection up to 258F (125C).

Protect against rust and corrosion.

Help keep the proper engine temperature.

Let the warning lights and gages work as
they should.
What to Use
Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and
one
-half coolant that meets GM Specification 1825-M,
which won't damage aluminum parts. You can also use
a recycled coolant conforming to GM Specification
1825
-M with a complete coolant flush and refill.
If you use this coolant mixture, you don't need to add
anything else.
CAUTION:
Adding only plain water to your cooling system
can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other
liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper
coolant mixture will. Your vehicle's coolant
warning system is set for the proper coolant
mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture,
your engine could get too hot but you wouldn't
get the overheat warning. Your engine could
catch fire and you or others could be burned.
Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water
and the proper coolant.

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6-30
NOTICE:
If you use an improper coolant mixture, your
engine could overheat and be badly damaged.
The repair cost wouldn't be covered by your
warranty. Too much water in the mixture can
freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core
and other parts.
If you have to add coolant more than four times a year,
have your dealer check your cooling system.
NOTICE:
If you use the proper coolant, you don't have to
add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to
improve the system. These can be harmful.
Checking Coolant
JE±16±0014±X
The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your
engine is cold, the coolant level should be at LOW, or a
little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should
be up to FULL, or a little higher.
Adding Coolant
If you need more coolant, add the proper coolant
mixture at the coolant recovery tank.

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9-3
Damage
Finish 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sheet Metal 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Daytime Running Lamps 2-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dead Battery 5-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defects, Reporting Safety 8-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defensive Driving 4-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defogger, Rear Window 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defogging 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defrosting 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dimensions, Vehicle 6-66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dome Lamp Bulb Replacement 6-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dome Lamps 2-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Door
Locks 2
-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Downshifting 2-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drive Position, Automatic Transmission 2-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driver Position 1-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving
City 4
-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defensive 4-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drunken 4-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Freeway 4-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Guidelines 4-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In a Blizzard 4-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In Foreign Countries 6-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In the Rain 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Night 4-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Off-Road 4-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On Curves 4-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On Grades 4-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On Hill and Mountain Roads 4-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On Snow and Ice 4-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Through Water 4
-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wet Roads 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Winter 4-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
With a Trailer 4-50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drunken Driving 4-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Easy Entry Seat 1-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical Equipment, Adding 2-14, 3-14, 6-60 . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical System 6-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine 6-11, 6-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Cleaner 6-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant 6-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant Level Check 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant Temperature Gage 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust 2-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuse Block 6-62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Identification 6-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil Level Check 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overheating 5-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Running While Parked 2-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specifications 6-64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting Your 2-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Compartment Fuse Block 6-62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Oil 6-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding 6-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additives 6-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking 6-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Used 6-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What Kind to Use 6-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
When to Change 6-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment, Adding to the Outside of Your Vehicle 6-3 . . . . . .
Ethanol 6-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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9-6
Low, Automatic Transmission 2-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lowering and Raising the Canvas Top 2-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lubricants and Fluids 7-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lubrication Service, Body 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Luggage Carrier 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance, Normal Replacement Parts 6-65 . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance Record 7-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance Schedule 7-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How it is Organized 7-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction 7-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long Trip 7-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long Trip/Highway Definition 7-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long Trip/Highway Intervals 7-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Owner Checks and Services 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Periodic Maintenance Inspections 7-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 7-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Scheduled Maintenance Services 7-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short Trip 7-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short Trip/City Definition 7-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short Trip/City Intervals 7-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Your Vehicle and the Environment 7-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance, Underbody 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance When Trailer Towing 4-53 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Malfunction Indicator Lamp 2-64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Adjust Mirror 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Front Seat 1-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Transmission
Fluid 6
-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shifting 2-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting Your Engine 2-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Methanol 6-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mirrors 2
-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Convex Outside 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Adjust 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Remote Control 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MMT 6-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mobility Program 8-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Model Reference iii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mountain Roads 4
-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Multifunction Lever 2-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Neutral
Automatic Transmission 2-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Transmission 2-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Vehicle Break-In 2-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Night Vision 4-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Odometer 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Odometer, Trip 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Off-Road Driving 4-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Off-Road Recovery 4-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil, Engine 6-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil Pressure Light 2-66, 6-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overdrive, Automatic Transmission 2-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overdrive Off Light 2-68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overheating Engine 5-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Owner Checks and Services 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Owner Publications, Ordering 8-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Paint Spotting, Chemical 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Park
Automatic Transmission 2
-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shifting Into 2-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shifting Out of 2-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .