What Kind of Coolant Does a Semi Truck Use?

Semi trucks operate in a wide range of climates and conditions, making the type of coolant they use vitally important. A semi truck’s cooling system is essential for keeping its engine running at peak performance and for ensuring that the engine does not overheat.

The primary function of a coolant is to absorb and transfer heat from the engine to the radiator. Without an effective coolant, engines can suffer from a variety of issues, including reduced efficiency, loss of power, and even permanent damage.

Most semi trucks typically use an ethylene glycol-based coolant that includes additives such as corrosion inhibitors, lubricants, rust inhibitors, and anti-foaming agents. This type of coolant has a higher boiling point than traditional automotive antifreeze and is designed to protect truck engines that are more powerful than those found in passenger cars. Semi truck coolants also have a lower freezing point than standard automotive antifreeze so they don’t form slush when exposed to extreme cold.

In addition to preventing overheating and freezing, semi truck coolants also help protect against corrosion. Corrosion is caused by acids that build up in the cooling system over time due to contaminants such as rust particles or fuel additives. The additives in semi truck coolants help neutralize these acids so they don’t damage sensitive parts within the engine.

It’s important for drivers to use the correct type of coolant for their semi trucks. Different engines require different types of coolants so it’s important for drivers to check with their manufacturer or mechanic before changing their vehicle’s coolant. Coolant should be changed on a regular basis according to the manufacturer’s specifications – usually every two years or 24,000 miles – in order to ensure maximum performance from your vehicle.

In conclusion, semi trucks typically use ethylene glycol-based coolants with special additives designed specifically for larger engines. These additives not only help prevent overheating and freezing but also provide added protection against corrosion caused by contaminants within the cooling system. It’s important for drivers to use the correct type of coolant as well as change it on schedule in order keep their vehicles running at peak performance.

To sum up, semi trucks typically use ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with special additives designed specifically for larger engines that require higher boiling points than traditional automotive antifreeze. These additives help prevent overheating, freezing, and corrosion caused by contaminants within the cooling system. Drivers should always check with their manufacturer or mechanic before changing their vehicle’s coolant and replace it on schedule in order keep their vehicles running at peak performance.

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James Gardner