When talking about coolants, it’s a common misconception that all coolants are the same. There are many different types of coolants that are suited best for specific vehicles. These differences are also what makes mixing coolants a bad idea, as it can lead to disastrous damage to your fleet’s engines. That’s why having a proper coolant and knowing the right option for that vehicle is so important. It is a necessary part of your overall fleet maintenance in Spokane.
Keep Your Coolants Separate
From transferring heat, protecting against corrosion, or increasing the freeze protection, coolants are a crucial component in safeguarding heavy-duty fleet engines. Still, the way that coolants work varies between the different types. Two of the most commonly used coolants are conventional, fully-formulated coolant and extended life coolant.
Extended life coolants are composed of neutralized organic acids that deplete at a much slower rate. Fully-formulated coolants, on the other hand, consists of inorganic acids. They provide a protective film to protect against corrosion, but if mixed, they become diluted. If this happens, their effectiveness is lost, and the engine is put at risk of disastrous corrosion or overheating.
Regular Checks And Changes Are Key
Maintaining your coolants should never be a once-a-year check, such as only during the winter when the weather gets cold. Like oil, coolants need to be checked and maintained regularly. Training your drivers on how to check the coolants is the best way to prevent any mix-ups and keep your fleet’s engines safe. To assist with fleet maintenance, drivers can also take extra coolant with them to do pre- and post-trip checks and top-ups if necessary.
Start by checking the coolant with a testing strip. The color will let your drivers know if the coolant is good to go or if it needs to be replaced. Do a visual inspection as well to check for dirt, debris, or any rust. The freezing point must also be verified and can you can do this using a refractometer. Checking with a refractometer is the most accurate way to check this. It will show if the coolant has become diluted with water or not. If it has, this puts the engine at risk, so it’s necessary to replace the coolant.
Proactive And Pro Maintenance
Proactive maintenance and proper training will go a long way to keep your fleet’s engines safe, but don’t rule out a professional check. Take your fleet’s engines to companies such as Motorplex, where we will handle fluid checks and changes. Between proactive fleet maintenance in Spokane by your drivers and our professional inspections, your fleet’s engines will always be in top condition.
