Does Your Diesel Truck Need Radiator Repair?

Your diesel vehicle needs maintenance and repair just like gas-powered autos. It’s especially important to keep an eye on your radiator, which is the central component of your cooling system. If you don’t repair the issues right away, it could affect the engine performance—and cause major damage. Here’s how to tell when your diesel truck needs radiator maintenance or repair in Memphis, TN.

Why your radiator is so important

Your radiator ensures that your engine stays cool enough to function. Radiator fluid is a coolant, which is sent through pipes to absorb the engine heat. Once the coolant has absorbed the heat, the coolant moves the heat outside. If your radiator doesn’t work, you might experience melted gaskets, seals and hoses. These can lead to some expensive and time-consuming repairs.

Radiators also help prevent the engine from seizing up in cold weather. Your radiator helps lower the freezing point for your engine components, and prevents corrosion from forming on the radiator and in the engine.

Signs it’s time to take your truck in for repair

Here are some symptoms of radiator trouble that indicate you need to bring your vehicle to a mechanic for repairs:

• Overheating: The most obvious sign that your radiator is malfunctioning is when the engine overheats. You’ll be able to tell because large clouds of smoke or steam will billow out from under the hood.
• Temperature gauge stuck on “hot”: Your temperature gauge is also a good place to monitor engine temperature. If the needle seems to be stuck on “hot” more often than not, you might need to replace your coolant or take your vehicle to the shop for more serious repairs.
• Low coolant levels: As you know, your vehicle’s fluid levels need to be properly maintained for all the systems to work. If your radiator is low on coolant, it won’t be able to do its job properly. Make a plan to check all your fluid levels on a regular basis.
• Coolant leaks: Keep an eye out for puddles forming underneath your vehicle. If you notice bright green, yellow or pink fluid leaking from underneath the truck, you may have a coolant leak. Bring your vehicle to the shop as soon as possible so you don’t experience overheating.
• Discoloration or rust: When radiator hoses crack and leak, the fluid can land on hot engine parts. This causes them to rust over time. Make sure to keep an eye on everything under the hood—if your radiator or engine looks rusty, you’ll need repair or maintenance as soon as possible.

Radiator repair doesn’t have to be expensive. In many cases, they simply need more fluids or a replacement hose. Make sure you stick to a strict maintenance schedule, lest you find yourself surprised when you’re miles away from help.

If you’re in need of diesel radiator repair and maintenance in Memphis, TN, United Diesel Power can help. We know exactly how to handle heavy-duty diesel trucks, big rigs and more. Call us or stop by today to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

Categorised in: Diesel Truck Repair

This post was written by Writer