How to maintain your heavy-duty vehicle’s engine cooling system in Summer

Routine maintenance is a necessity to keep the vehicle’s performance from slipping. With changing seasons come the new upkeep focal points on trucks that drivers need to replace before they hit the road. During rainy months, truckers must pay closer attention to the repairs on the truck’s airbrake and suspension; in summer, pay attention to the engine’s cooling systems.

Did you know that there are six important parts that work in harmony to create a fully functioning cooling system that includes the cooling fan, radiator, water pump, thermostat, rubber hoses, and anti-freeze/coolant? The key thing to note is that if one component goes bad, then it could create a ripple effect that will send your vehicle to a nearby repair shop.

Top signs of the failure of an engine’s cooling system

One of the many ways to protect your engine’s cooling system is to lookout for indications of any failure of the engine cooling system. Here are some warning signs: 

• One of the most common signs of a failing engine cooling system is an overheating vehicle. 
• Rising temperature gauge could be your first sign of trouble. If you notice the needle dive into the red “danger” zone, pull over immediately. 
• Always check coolant fluids before long-haul trips. If it drops, you may have a leak. 
• Smoke could be another sign, since it could be from burnt coolant in the chamber or a blown gasket.

Ways to prevent engine cooling system problems

While routine maintenance is the answer, make sure you do enough ground work so that you don’t run up a fat bill. While taking heed of the below suggestions, also remember to refer to the specific truck operator’s manual and service documentation for additional information on the truck’s cooling system.

• Heavy-duty vehicle operators should replace pumps every 60,000—90,000 miles.
• Always check pumps for broken seals, bad bearings, and system contamination, including cavitation, before setting out to repair it.
• Ensure that the clear liquid should be above the 'cold minimum line' on the coolant reservoir tank. Most semi-trucks require 12—14 gallons total. Check often and refill, if needed.
• Remember that there is no scheduled maintenance for cooling fans. Instead, test before going on big trips. Start by using a volt reader to check for power to the wires (12V is normal). If you hear strange noises from the engine, or see a dip in coolant levels or a rise in temperature, replace the fan to be safe.
• Inspect the radiator for corrosion and the radiator cap for cracks and swelling. Examine coolant to ensure it is free from contaminants, and if there is sludge build-up in the radiator, or coolant leaks, replace the radiator.
• Thermostat should be replaced every two years.
• When scrutinizing the radiator, check the hoses for cracks and leaks. Always try to replace every two years along with belts and tensioner arms.

To sum up, the best way to protect your heavy-duty vehicle from downtime in the summer is to check and replace the top engine cooling system parts that work hard to keep your engine running at its peak performance.