Common Coolant System Issues in Heavy-Duty Trucks

Fleets of heavy-Duty trucks expect to travel long distances with hefty loads. The truck and its systems safely exert themselves and become prone to overwork. The coolant system comes to the rescue when areas like the engine or transmission overheat themselves. Without the coolant system, overheating becomes prominent. By reading more, learn more about common issues of coolant systems, like leakages.

Diagnosing Heavy-Duty Truck Coolant System 

It's important to self-diagnose common issues that your coolant system may encounter. Learning about these issues can help you identify early symptoms of coolant inefficiency and encourage professional mechanic inspections. Leakages should be the first step in this diagnostic process. Then coolant levels, temperature control, and any radiator issues. Having expert mechanics to diagnose and maintain your coolant system keeps your heavy-duty truck at peak performance. 

Heavy-Duty Coolant System Problems and Symptoms

Radiator Issues: Plugged and Damaged

Your radiator acts like a hotel lobby, gathering coolant to cool down. The radiator’s job begins with gathering hot coolant. Once gather, flowing air or gathered air from the fan cools the fluid down. The cooled fluid circulates through coolant lines towards the engine and repeats the cycle. Without the radiator, a missing jigsaw prevents the cooling process from occurring. Some common issues related to the radiator include: 

Corrosion: Aging and wear of metal parts. When the tubes show age, they might crack and let debris sneak in, leading to leaks.

Blocked Radiator: Sometimes, unwanted debris checks in, blocking the coolant's path. This unwanted guest blocks the passages for the coolant to circulate throughout the systems. It leads to overheating because hot coolant cannot absorb any more heat. 

Damaged Hose: The hose connects to the entrance and exits of the radiator. Over time, a leak can pop up if there are cracks or signs of wear.

Faulty Radiator Cap: This little lid keeps coolant sealed in the radiator and blocks coolant leakages. This entrance allows radiator flushes to occur. A faulty radiator cap may create leakages and low coolant levels. 

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The Fan and Its Trusty Clutch

The fan and its clutch are a dynamic duo. When the airflow isn't enough, the fan clutch nudges the fan to assist in cooling the fluid. A fan clutch enables the activation of this assistance. A malfunctioning fan clutch leads to potential overheating situations as support doesn’t help to cool down critical components. 

In addition, the fan might need to be fixed. Debris and substances may smack the fan fins, damaging them beyond repair or effective use. Time also wears fans as they become susceptible to damage. Replacements and repairs by expert mechanics are needed to keep your heavy-duty truck’s coolant system from overheating.

Water Pump Malfunctions 

Imagine a relay race, and the baton is the coolant. Your water pump, powered by the serpentine belt, pushes the coolant through coolant lines. The relay race wouldn’t begin without the water pump, and the coolant will not complete its mission. Ensuring that the water pump is in top condition becomes essential. If your heavy-duty truck carries massive loads, it risks overheating and possible damage. Guaranteeing water pump action means trusting your truck to circulate coolant for optimal performance. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Heavy-Duty Truck Coolant Systems 

How long can a truck run without coolant?

Coolant is arguably the most important fluid under the hood of your car. Without it, your engine wouldn't make it more than just a few minutes without suffering a breakdown with irreparable damage.

How do I know if my coolant needs topping up?

Coolant should be topped up whenever the level drops below guide marks. Regarding draining and changing the coolant, manufacturers' guidance also varies. Inspecting and changing coolant after 30,000 miles is common. Inspections depend on your car's age.

Why is my coolant low but no leaks?

If the coolant level drops without noticeable external leakages, the coolant has slipped internally into the engine. If the car has recently overheated, then this could have caused the head gasket to fail. If it has, it could be leaking coolant into the combustion chambers.

Can I put water in my coolant?

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Can you top your coolant up with water? Coolant should only be topped up with water in the case of an emergency when the coolant liquid level is lower than it should be. While topping up with water will help you get safely to the nearest RAC Approved Garage and identify any issues, it shouldn't be relied upon.

Final Words 

The role of the coolant system becomes central to maintaining the effectiveness and efficiency of your engine. Without proper coolant circulation, absorption, and cooling, it takes minutes before your heavy-duty truck encounters issues and overheats. 

Here at Diamond Fleet Service LLC, located in Myerstown, PA, our skilled mechanics with over 35 years of combined experience ensure our service is of the highest quality standard. Contact us today and experience Diamond Fleet Service. Your trucks continue at peak performance, and you’ll have peace of mind with a safe and issueless drive.