Your machine’s engine radiator is one of its most vital components. It plays an essential role in preventing overheating and extending your equipment’s useful service life. Just like other systems in your machine, radiators require regular upkeep to maintain optimal performance. In this article, we outline several key recommendations and maintenance strategies to ensure it operates at its best.

Maintain fresh coolant
Approximately 40%-60% of engine failures are attributed to coolant issues. These problems often stem from using incorrect coolant or topping up with incompatible products. Keep accurate records to ensure timely fluid changes according to manufacturer recommendations and avoid mixing different coolant types.

Clear obstructions daily
A crucial part of engine radiator maintenance is to regularly remove blockages. During the warmer months, we suggest inspecting your radiator screen daily for debris such as dirt or grass. A clean screen helps your machine deliver the best performance possible.

Keep radiator cores clean
Utilize compressed air to remove dirt and debris from the core sections on your heavy equipment radiators. If material is difficult to clear, you can use high pressure water or steam instead, but compressed air is the preferred method.

Check the radiator cap for signs of wear
Once the engine radiator has cooled, carefully remove the cap to release system pressure. Examine the cap for damage or material buildup, and replace the cap if any cracks or damage are visible. Otherwise, clean the cap thoroughly and securely reattach it.

Exercise extra caution when using hydraulic attachments
Hydraulic attachments place greater strain on a machine’s cooling system and engine radiator compared to standard buckets. This increased stress can lead to quicker overheating, requiring operators to monitor the machine more closely, particularly in hot conditions.

Always turn off the engine and let the radiator cool before inspection or maintenance
Hot, pressurized coolant can cause personal injury. It’s extremely important to make sure the engine is off and the system has cooled down before examining or working on radiators.

If you have any questions about engine radiator maintenance or heavy equipment radiators in general, contact our team today!