How to perform preventive maintenance on a semi truck engine cooling system
July 10, 2020
If a fan clutch fails, there are plenty of options to replace it. But with preventive maintenance, you can detect and solve potential problems well before they put a customer’s truck out of commission.
Here's a simple, step-by-step guide:
1. Check the state of the radiator, coolant hoses, expansion tank, water pump, AC system, belt, belt tensioner and thermostat for any visual signs of corrosion, wear or other defects.
2. Examine the fan for any defects, chips or contamination buildup.
3. If the fan clutch is pneumatically-operated, take a look at the system supplying air to the clutch.
This includes checking the air line to the solenoid valve, the air line to the fan clutch, and the electric circuit to the solenoid valve.
[RELATED: Heavy-duty fan clutch repair and replacement options can be found in Horton's online catalog]
4. Examine the fan clutch for any defects
Including these checks as part of your regular preventive maintenance program can significantly increase the life of a truck's engine cooling system and reveal problems before they cause a truck-down situation.
If there are any issues, be sure to refer to the vehicle's service manual. Fan clutch removal methods are different from application to application.
