The Valeo cooling systems are essential aftermarket parts for European trucks. The systems incorporate the radiator, which is a central element crucial for maintaining the engine coolant at the correct levels.
Why is a radiator an essential accessory for heavy-duty vehicles?
To remain at the correct temperatures, your truck depends on the radiator and the cooling system. Although all the cooling system parts are important for proper functioning, the radiator’s work is to pump the coolant through the engine and back again to ensure that the vehicle is not overheating.
The core serves the radiator’s primary purpose of cooling the engine system. The radiator hose features cooling fins to cool the fluid when it circulates through. To transport the coolant through the engine, these hoses need to be sturdy and robust to counter their vibrations. On the other hand, the radiator cap prevents dirt, dust, or other external contaminants from getting into the system. It also applies pressure on the cooling system to raise the boiling point while the fan cools the cooling water.
An improperly functioning radiator can affect the engine leading to overheating due to extreme temperatures. During long-haul trips in hot weather, the radiator coolant raises the boiling point of the engine to limit the chances of overheating. The coolant is also needed during freezing temperatures. It decreases the engine’s freezing point for guaranteed operation even on the coldest of days. This way, irrespective of the weather conditions, your truck works fine, and the engine is not prone to corrosion.
Signs of an overheating engine
- The dashboard’s temperature gauges showcase an unsafe level.
- You notice steam emission from under the hood.
Maintaining the radiator
While being on top of your car’s peak performance may require the services of a professional, examining the coolant levels and fluid quality doesn’t require a trained eye. Open the radiator cap carefully and use a rag, especially when the engine is still running, or the car is hot. If there is steam build-up as the engine starts to overheat, significant pressure may build-up, resulting in a violent release once opened, so caution is the key.
For a low fluid level, confirm any bright yellow or green coolant fluid leaks, and then refill the reservoir. It should be a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water. Some radiator fluids are bought ready to use, so check the label first.
Where to get your radiator
Just like you take the time to choose a company for pretty much everything, the radiator shouldn’t be an exception. You can depend on companies with the right accreditations or partnerships with renowned brands for aftermarket parts for European trucks like DAF, IVECO, and MAN for trustworthy spare parts.
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Factors to consider when selecting your radiator
- The fan type, whether a flex or electric fan;
- The engines’ performance, precisely the torque production and horsepower output;
- The available space in the truck’s engine compartment;
- Type of transmissions, since automatic transmissions require a transmission cooler; and
- Size of the engine.
Conclusion
Heavy-duty vehicles are exposed to wear and tear from frequent and prolonged exposure to harsh weather elements. To ascertain your vehicle’s peak performance, it may be best to have professional maintenance, and most importantly, avoid downtime by selecting high-quality radiators.