Did You Know?

It is a good practice to clean and flush your radiator annually. In fact, most engine manufacturers require this.

Benefits of cleaning and flushing your radiator.

• Removes Rust and Scale Deposits

• Improved Engine Performance

• Water Pump Lubrication

• Protect against future rust.

All of these things extend the life of your heavy-duty diesel engine. The name of the game is keeping your engine operating at optimal performance which in turn keeps your truck on the road and you making money.

Can I self-perform a radiator clean and Flush?

Yes, this is something you can do in your driveway or wherever, this allows you to not only gain experience but further inspect other mechanical components that may be needing attention soon.

What do I need to self-perform radiator cleaning and flushing?

• A freshwater source. (Water hose, pressure washer)

• Containers to capture and properly dispose of old antifreeze.

• Radiator flush or box of cascade powder soap.

• New antifreeze

What are the steps to a radiator flush?

1. Let the truck cool down if you have been operating the truck.

2. Drain used antifreeze into containers for disposal.

3. Use a freshwater source to clean the outside of the radiator. (if using a pressure washer be careful not to damage the radiator with pressure)

4. Fill the radiator back up with water and flush or cascade powder soap

5. Get the truck to operating temperature to ensure that the thermostats are open and the flush or cascade powder is circulating throughout the system.

6. Drain water from the radiator.

7. If water did not come out clean repeat the flush until water comes out clean.

8. Refill the radiator with manufacturer-approved antifreeze.

9. Get the engine back to operating temp (approx. 190-210 degrees F) and check for any leaks.

After refilling with approved antifreeze, you must monitor the coolant level to ensure there were no air pockets in the coolant system. There is a strong possibility after you get your engine back to operating temp you will have to add additional coolant due to the air pockets being pushed out of the system.

Last but not least enjoy the peace of mind knowing your coolant system is clean and in proper working order.

Our installments of The More You Know series, comes out on Thursdays! We hope you enjoyed