Maintenance Tips for Heavy Equipment Radiators
The engine radiator in your machine is one of its most crucial components. It plays a key role in avoiding overheating and lengthening the lifespan of your equipment. To keep your radiator functioning it’s important to schedule routine maintenance as you would any other component or system in your machine. In this article, we’re providing you with some of the most important tips and best practices for heavy equipment radiators.
Check the engine radiator regularly
The most critical step for keeping your heavy equipment radiators in top working condition is to inspect them periodically to catch any problems early, before they turn into more significant, costly issues. During your inspections, it’s important to look for any obvious signs of damage, like leaks, cracks, or rust.
Keep your radiator fins clean
It’s the job of the radiator fins to transfer heat by increasing the surface area exposed to the coolant. The problem is, these fins can be very prone to clogging due to dust, dirt, and other debris, which can limit their effectiveness. To avoid clogging, it’s crucial to clean the fins regularly using compressed air or a soft brush. We don’t recommend using high pressure water, as it can bend or damage the fins.
Change coolant at the intervals outlined by the manufacturer
We find that about 40%-60% of all engine failures are coolant related. Specifically, they are related to using an improper coolant or to topping off the system with the wrong product. We recommend maintaining accurate records to ensure you’re replacing the fluid at manufacturer suggested intervals and not mixing different coolants together.
Look for everyday blockages
It’s important to check your radiator screen daily during the summer months for dirt, grass or other debris. A clean screen will help the engine radiator work more effectively and aid your equipment in keeping cool and ensuring optimal performance.
Inspect the radiator cap for damage
Wait until your engine radiator cools, then slowly remove its cap to lower the system pressure. Examine the cap for any signs of damage and/or deposits of material. If you do notice any cracks or damage, we suggest installing a new cap. Otherwise, clean it and close the cap firmly.
Be cautious when operating hydraulic attachments
Hydraulic attachments increase stress on your cooling system and make it work harder than it normally would. This stress leads to quicker overheating and requires the operator to watch their machine closely, especially during the hot summer months.
If you have any questions about your engine radiator or keeping heavy equipment radiators cooler, contact our team today!