Engines come in all forms of sizes, styles, and may even differ on the way they function – but the way these operate is pretty simple. You need a power source, such as electricity, fuel, or gasoline and with that power, it’ll run and make the machine work. Do take note, however, that not all engines run the same way, but that’s basically the gist of what we’re going after. Aside from being powered from a fuel source, there’s also one more thing that makes these machines similar – most of them make use of coolant to basically keep your engine from overheating.
With a coolant’s absence, the pressures, temperatures that are found in your engine’s lines, pipes, hoses, and other components could shoot up – and may eventually cause damage that couldn’t be reversed. It is crucial that you have the right amount of coolant, but at the same time, it is crucial that you’re aware that you’re using the right type and that the coolant does its job properly to ensure that your vehicle performs at its best.
As for the other parts of your vehicle, technology has played a crucial role and it has significantly improved in terms of improving engine fluids, coolants as such, and along with these changes, the “one-size-fits-all” rule seemed to have changed as well. Take coolants as an example. The formula being used has been changed – most especially for those heavy-duty vehicles that run on diesel – the ones that are extremely complicated. The newer coolant formula, on the other hand, has the nitrate removed. While these newer formulae and modified coolants have been changed, you have to remember that it’s been made for the better – they just work differently on machines which is why you have to be careful when choosing which one to use.
To begin with, the newer coolant versions require more oil – but don’t worry – it will still save you a whole lot of money because maintaining your coolant system won’t be as often as it used to before. Additionally, without nitrates, that also means that there will be minimal damage to your coolant system’s internal parts. As mentioned earlier, the new formulae for most of these coolant systems are expected to last longer and won’t suddenly break down during extreme weather conditions, similar to what we’re experiencing here in Alberta. Additionally, determining the coolant concentrations will be easier – which is actually an advantage. When the coolant is too high, the fluid can turn into a gel form when it gets too cold, which can eventually cause troubles to your lines. When it’s too hot, the system won’t be as affected. The great thing about this is that trained technicians could easily determine the right level as the coolants are needed to be tested with the help of a refractometer.
Just in case you’re still not yet sold, the new coolants in the market now comes with corrosion protection. Along with that, it comes with pre-added additives that are very helpful in helping prevent a wide range of issues with your engine. This means that it requires less maintenance, but it would still work great and can keep your engine running for longer periods of time.
If you believe your vehicle requires a coolant flush to make sure it performs at its best – or whether you think that it needs some other work, like a tune-up for instance – preventive maintenance is what you need to make sure that you won’t have to worry about larger repair costs. Fleet Tech is your go to team. Call us and we will be happy to be of assistance to you.