The radiator is an essential device for the cooling system of many Clark lift truck models. When a radiator does not adequately fulfill its role, it compromises the integrity of many vehicle components. That's why it is so important to replace them on time when compromising faults appear. Learning how to spot these dad signs is crucial to guarantee the lifespan of these lift trucks. With this in mind, in this opportunity at Lift Parts Warehouse, we want to share a little more about the importance that Clark forklift radiators have and what elements we should consider when buying their replacement.
How Does a Clark Forklift Radiator Work?
A Clark forklift radiator is a type of radiator that is used to cool the engine of a Clark forklift. The coolant extracts heat from the engine and then passes it through the radiator to lower its temperature. The Clark forklift radiator is an essential part of the Clark forklift's cooling system and helps keep the engine running at its optimum temperature. Without a radiator, any Clark lift truck engine would overheat and eventually fail. Therefore, it is essential to maintain and clean this device regularly to ensure it functions properly.
Radiators use a process called convection to exchange heat. Convection takes advantage of the movement of fluids to speed up the transfer of heat from a hot object to a cold one. That is why radiators are made with special shapes. The tubes in the radiator have external fins that increase the surface area that comes into contact with the cold air. This allows the coolant to cool down quickly as it moves through the radiator.
The video below explains in more detail how the engine cooling system works. You will be able to see in a more intuitive way the role that the radiator plays in the whole process.
Do All Clark Forklifts Have Radiators?
Clark forklift trucks powered by an internal combustion engine must have a cooling system to control the engine's temperature. This is true for all fuel types, like gasoline, diesel, and LPG. For this reason, Clark forklift radiators are not available for models powered by electric motors using lithium batteries. Electric motors do not generate as much heat as internal combustion engines, so they do not require a cooling system.
Clark forklift radiators are commonly located on the rear side of the vehicle, and to access them, you must remove the rear cover first and then disconnect their hoses. Then, once you have uncoupled its anchor points, you can remove it by pulling it parallel upwards.
It would be best if you kept in mind that the radiator sizes can change depending on the lift truck model, so it is possible that these steps will not apply in all cases. For greater security, it is best to consult the manual corresponding to your model to know what is the best way to change it.
Main Clark Forklift Radiator Parts
Clark forklift radiators come in various shapes and sizes, but it can be said that essentially all have the same main parts.
The Radiator Core
The core is the radiator body and is made up of a series of metal tubes. These tubes are filled with a coolant, and as the vehicle goes. The heat from the engine is transferred to the coolant, and the coolant circulates through the radiator. While it passes through, from the inside to the outside, the coolant it's cooled.
The radiator core also has fins that help to improve its cooling efficiency. These fins increase the radiator's surface area, which allows more heat to be transferred to the air. In addition, the fins help to deflect wind, which helps keep the coolant from getting too hot.
The Radiator Cap
The radiator cap is a key element of Clark forklift radiators. It helps maintain proper pressure in the system and prevents coolant from leaking. A damaged or missing Clark forklift radiator cap can cause the vehicle to perform badly, leading to serious damage.
Radiator Houses
Radiator hoses are responsible for carrying coolant to and from the radiator in Clark forklifts. There are two of them, the upper one and the lower one. Over time, these hoses can become brittle and cracked, leading to cooling system issues. It's important to regularly check your radiator hoses for any wear and tear signs and replace them if necessary. By doing so, you can keep your Clark forklift running smoothly and avoid any potential overheating.
How Long Do Radiators Last on Clark Lift Trucks?
Clark forklift radiators are components that, if maintained well, could last the vehicle's lifespan. But Clark lift trucks have the peculiarity of exceeding expectations originally set for them. It is not rare to see a Clark forklift over 20 or 30 years old operating without many issues. These forklifts are easy to maintain and take care of and can still be productive for a long time.
But in such a long lifespan these vehicles can provide, it is normal for their radiators to be exposed to different circumstances that compromise their integrity. Therefore, it is normal to have to replace them at least every 8 or 10 years to guarantee a proper lift truck operation. In any case, even without basic maintenance attention, we can expect at least a Clark forklift will provide us with at least 3 years of useful working life.
How Do You Know If Your Clark Forklift Needs a New Radiator?
Your Clark lift truck is overheating. If your Clark forklift is constantly overheating, especially under normal driving conditions, this is one of the most common signs that your radiator might be failing. Remember that overheating is the first sign that something might be wrong with the cooling system. Before buying a new radiator, please ensure that this device is the source of the fault.
Your Clark lift truck is leaking coolant. If you see a puddle of coolant under your Clark truck, it might mean that there is a crack or opening where the coolant is leaking out. Keep in mind that the leak may be from the hoses. Check the radiator carefully to find the source of the leak.
Sludge buildup in the radiator is spotted. The presence of sludge in the radiator may be an indication that something is blocking the flow of water inside the radiator. This might be because of many things, but you need to take care of it as soon as possible. If the blockage can't be fixed, it's best to get a new radiator.
Low coolant levels. You might not always be able to see a puddle of coolant under the forklift. Sometimes, coolant leaks are more subtle. The best way to detect them is by constantly checking the coolant level.
Bent or Damaged Fins. Over time, the fins on the radiator can become bent or damaged, making it less effective at cooling the engine. Bent fins can usually be straightened, but damaged fins must be replaced.
Lift Parts Warehouse, the Best Place to Purchase Your New Clark Forklift Radiator
Lift Parts Warehouse is a leading online distribuitor of Clark lift trucks spare parts currently active in the United State. We have been successfully delivering many components of this brand for years, and their radiators were not going to be the exception.
You will find an easy to use "pick and buy" system on our website that will make your shopping experience more satisfying. And thanks to our large catalog of radiators for Clark forklift, we assure you, you will find the right model for your needs. Our products are highly competitive in price and are designed so that anyone can afford a quality product. If you would like to know more about our pricing policies, please click here.
We are so confident in our products that we offer a one-year warranty on every radiator for Clark forklift in stock to prove it. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, don't worry; you can return it and receive a full refund. For more information about our return policies, we invite you to click here.
So why wait any longer? Let us show you why we are the best online retailer of forklift parts.
Takeaways
Clark trucks powered by an internal combustion engine rely on radiators to help keep engine temperature regulated. If a radiator fails, the integrity of both the engine and others internal parts will be compromised. To keep your Clark truck running smoothly, have your radiator regularly inspected and replaced when necessary. Fortunately, to help you with that last point, you can count on the services of Lift Parts Warehouse. With our radiators, your Clark forklift will work at its best for many years.