Coolant is generally the most neglected fluid on a truck, and it leads to significant woes downstream.
In fact, Lawrence Wong, product technical specialist for Chevron Lubricants, said about 40% of engine related problems can be tied back to the coolant system, and he advocates that carriers add the coolant system to their preventive maintenance cycle.
"There are two quick things you can to check for. One of them is the pH and the other is freeze point. If one or both of those parameters are off, something's wrong with the fluid and you may want to have a sample pulled and tested at a lab just to make sure," he said. "Once those two checks are done, make sure your cooling system is topped off with the appropriate coolant."
Brad Jordan, OEM Technical Services Manager with Shell Global Solutions, said maintenance is relatively simple for extended life, or Organic Acid Technology (OAT), coolants. "Fleets should check the condition of their coolant at least twice a year. With colder weather coming, the fall is a good time," he said.
First, Jordan recommended fleets perform a visual check of the coolant level and appearance. The coolant should be clear with no cloudiness, floating debris or oil visible.
