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Your truck or big rig depends on many fluids to run smoothly and safely. Among the most important is the coolant, also known as antifreeze. While you might be familiar with the word, you may not know how it functions to keep your system from overheating or freezing. Understanding what it is and problems it may cause will help you care for your vehicle. Here’s a guide to coolant and when to seek maintenance or replacement parts for it.

What You Should Know About Coolant

coolantWhat Is It?

Coolant is a substance combined with water that absorbs heat produced by the engine. This protects your vehicle’s radiator from extreme temperatures. During the winter, it prevents freezing, and in the summer it minimizes the chances of overheating.

Why Is Flushing Essential?

The internal components in trucks and big rigs run hot as they operate. This can have a detrimental effect on the coolant’s quality, eventually causing it to deteriorate. Over time, the fluid may become acidic and stop preventing rust, which could cause corrosion in many of the vehicle’s parts, such as the thermostat, radiator, and elements of the cooling and heating system. If your fluids aren’t clean, your engine could overheat and fail.

How Should You Maintain It?

Check your coolant levels according to your vehicle’s recommended guidelines. If you drive often, inspect it at least every 12,000 miles. If levels are low after a recent fluid flush, visit your auto maintenance technician to determine if there’s a leak.

What Are Some Signs of a Problem?

Your car may exhibit signs of overheating if you haven’t flushed the fluid in a while or have a leak. The temperature gauge may rise and you may hear unusual hissing noises. There may even be steam rising from parts of the engine. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop the vehicle to wait for it to cool down, then call an auto maintenance professional.

 

If your coolant has damaged parts of your truck or big rig, visit Power & Transmission, Inc. in Fairbanks, AK, for replacements. They offer a wide range of essential truck parts, including coolant parts, hood components, seals, bearings, filters, and brakes. This family-owned and -operated establishment can help you find what you need and get your vehicle back on the road in no time. See what else they offer on their website, or call (907) 456-2230 to ask about their inventory.

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