5 most common radiator problems

Green liquid or a sweet smell are indicators of a leaking radiator. Damaged hoses are the most frequent cause but leaks in the radiator itself can cause a lot more headaches. A non-stop coolant flow from the radiator to the heated engine causes a pressure build-up. Eventually, the radiator hoses will break under the pressure. 

Have a look at: How to spot radiator leaks easily by following the coolant flow | TVH 

Rust is a real threat and actually very common: after all, a radiator is a place where air, liquid and metal meet. Too much oxidation can cause leaks or a complete radiator failure. Is the machine functioning too hot? Or does the coolant have a brownish colour? Then be aware of rust. An excellent preventive measure is a coolant flush as part of the yearly maintenance.

The buildup of nasty residue is a common radiator issue. Debris, dirt and other contaminants block the correct amount of coolant from reaching the engine. Overheating is a clear sign of clogging. Draining and refilling the current coolant doesn’t fix the problem. We advise you to do a coolant flush to remove the collected gunk. 

A failing thermostat will cause a malfunctioning radiator. Because the system can’t deliver enough coolant, the water pump will fail and the pressure will drop. The only solution is to replace the water pump or thermostat. In some cases, both have to be replaced to prevent an overheated engine. 

Facing a sudden increase in machine cabin temperature? A failing radiator fan is a common wrongdoer. When the internal fan fails, inactive overheating can occur. The only solution? Replacing the radiator. 

It sometimes takes a slower machine, or even worse – a broken-down engine – to realise something was wrong with the cooling system. This is the last thing you want in a busy working environment that is always in motion. We’d like to share our technical insights to keep you going.

When it comes to preventing faulty radiators and coolant leaks a specific thing to pay attention to is the type of coolant you use. With a range of options to choose from, understanding the nuances and requirements for each radiator type is crucial for optimal machine functioning. Let's take a closer look at what each type has to offer and the precautions you need to keep in mind:

Full copper radiators: Engineered for durability, full copper radiators are the epitome of resilience. Resistant to corrosion both inside and out, these radiators are built to withstand the test of time. Picture a seamless cooling experience without any worries of leaks or internal damage. Plus, you can use economical blue coolant without any concerns.

Plastic-aluminium radiators: While efficient in their cooling capabilities, plastic-aluminium radiators require careful handling. Using the wrong coolant, especially ordinary water, can lead to internal leaks and corrosion. Always look out for the manufacturers' stickers for the correct coolant type.

Full aluminium radiators: Similar to their plastic aluminium counterparts, full aluminium radiators demand specific coolant for optimal performance. You should also be careful to not mix coolant types, as that can lead to chemical reactions, potentially causing significant damage over time. Make sure to adhere to the guidelines and apply the manufacturer-recommended coolant.

Understanding the intricacies of each radiator type is crucial for ensuring a long and hassle-free operation of your machinery. Failure to use the appropriate coolant can result in unwanted leaks and subsequent damage. Remember, when it comes to protecting your engine and radiator, the right coolant type plays a pivotal role. Choose wisely and enjoy uninterrupted performance from your machine for years to come.

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