Will the engine become weak after overheating?
2 Answers
The engine will become weak after overheating. The following are the reasons for engine overheating: 1. Electrical circuit failure: The electric cooling fan does not rotate, reducing the radiator's heat dissipation capacity; when the air conditioning is not in use, the water temperature is normal; when the air conditioning is turned on, the water temperature rises significantly. This fault is generally caused by the electric fan of the air conditioning radiator not rotating or the relay failing or being damaged. 2. Mechanical failure: The fan coupling is low on oil, damaged, or stuck, causing the cooling fan not to rotate. When the engine runs for a long time, the water temperature is high or even boils. This is generally caused by the thermostat failing, leading to poor water circulation. After the water temperature rises, the thermostat valve does not open, and the cooling water does not circulate in a large cycle, thus failing to dissipate heat and regulate the water temperature. In tropical regions of southern China or in emergencies, the thermostat valve can be removed. The water pump belt is loose or the water pump is damaged, resulting in no circulating water. Leakage at the water pipe, water jacket, and the joint between the cylinder block and cylinder head. 3. Improper assembly: For engines that have been overhauled or newly assembled, during the installation process, due to size or fit clearance discrepancies, the water temperature often tends to be high. For newly overhauled and assembled engines, running at medium speed for about half an hour, the water temperature tends to be high. This is generally due to the gap between the piston or piston ring and the cylinder being too small. Long-term operation can also cause ring sticking, ring breakage, and cylinder scoring. Debris left during repair or improperly placed objects can block the water passage, causing the water temperature to be high. The air inlet is blocked, leading to poor heat dissipation. 4. Improper adjustment: The exhaust valve clearance is too large. This causes the exhaust valve to open late and for a short time, resulting in poor exhaust and causing the water temperature to be high. This can generally be judged by the sound of the engine during operation, at which time there is a tapping sound between the valve and the rocker arm. The ignition timing is inaccurate. When the ignition timing is too early, incomplete combustion can cause knocking and secondary ignition, leading to high water temperature. When the ignition timing is too late, incomplete combustion occurs, which also causes the water temperature to be high.
As a frequent driver, I've noticed that engines do indeed lose power when overheated. High temperatures cause metal components to expand, leading to decreased cylinder pressure and incomplete combustion, which naturally reduces horsepower output. The lubrication system fails under high heat, with thinning oil unable to protect engine parts, increasing friction and resistance. It's like climbing a steep hill in hot weather – the car feels sluggish and lacks power. The cooling system is crucial: clogged radiators, faulty fans, or leaking water pumps can easily cause overheating. I recommend regularly checking coolant levels and temperature sensors, and avoiding prolonged high-load operations like climbing long hills while driving. If the temperature gauge turns red, stop the engine to cool down – don't ignore it, or engine damage could become a bigger problem.