TCM has been a heavy-duty vehicle manufacturing brand since 1949. Forklift models made by TCM are known for their efficiency and durability. However, like any other heavy vehicle, they require proper care and maintenance in order to get the most out of them. One of the elements we need to pay special attention to is their radiators. The TCM forklift radiator is the device responsible for controlling and maintaining the temperature of a TCM lift truck within a stable operating range. A radiator for TCM forklift is a robust cooling element designed to be durable, but it will inevitably need to be replaced over time. That is why it is imperative to know how to recognize their first signs of wear so that we can take immediate action.
Do All TCM Forklifts Have Radiators?
All TCM forklift models powered by internal combustion engines rely on a cooling system to help keep the engine from getting too hot. The most important part of the cooling system is the radiator. A radiator for TCM forklift will help keep the lift truck engine's temperature stable, no matter what kind of fuel the truck uses.
The radiator on most TCM forklift models is located in the rear side
The Main Parts and Accessories of a TCM Forklift Radiator
No matter what model or size of TCM forklift radiator you have, you will find that they all share two common features- a pair of hoses and a special cap. In addition, they all usually have a similar configuration to allow the coolant to dissipate heat.
TCM Forklift Radiator Cap
In any radiator for TCM forklift, you will find a cap whose main function is to stabilize the pressure of the coolant inside the radiator to prevent the coolant from reaching a boiling point. Also, when the engine is turned off, and the system cools down, the pressure inside the radiator can drop below atmospheric pressure.
When this happens, the radiator cap opens a vacuum valve inside, allowing a counterflow of part of the coolant from the coolant collector to the radiator to stabilize pressures and prevent the radiator hoses from collapsing. Watch the following video to see how this works.
TCM Forklift Radiator Hoses
On any radiator for TCM forklift, there are two main rubber hoses. The first, the "upper hose," is responsible for connecting the engine with the radiator inlet and is usually the longest of the two. The second, the lower hose, allows the radiator to communicate with the water pump. The coolant can enter and leave the radiator through these hoses, so they are an essential part of any radiator for TCM forklift.
The main part of a TCM forklift radiator is the core. This is where you will find the inlet and outlet nozzles; the first one is located in the top tank, and the second one is in the lower tank. You will also find a series of tubes through which the coolant will pass to dissipate its heat. These tubes have a series of fine fins that help increase heat transfer with the surrounding environment.
You must make sure the coolant level is correct before starting your TCM forklift. When you start the engine, much of the energy produced will be released as heat. This will increase the temperature of the engine. When the crankshaft starts rotating, a belt connected to it activates the water pump to avoid overheating.
The water pump pushes the coolant from the TCM radiator into the lift truck’s engine. The coolant is colder than the engine, so it can take heat away from the engine. When it leaves the engine, it goes through the upper radiator hose and into the radiator. The tubes inside the TCM radiator helps to transfer heat away from the coolant until it gets to the lower tank.
How a radiator works
These tubes have fins to increase their contact surface with airflow pulling from the cooling system fan blades. When the coolant finally reaches the bottom tank, it will release all the excess heat so it can be used again, thus repeating the cycle.
When Should TCM Radiator Hoses Be Replaced?
TCM radiator hoses often wear out over time. This is often caused by cracks that develop over time. It's important to periodically inspect them for cracking signs; also, you should replace them following the manufacturer's recommendation. If there are any leaks, it's important to fix them right away because they can cause the engine temperature to increase over time and reduce the performance of your lift truck.
What are the Symptoms of a Failing TCM Radiator Cap?
If a radiator for TCM forklift is showing signs of overheating, you might not need to buy a new one right away. Sometimes the problem can be fixed by replacing the radiator cap. If you find that your coolant constantly boils or your TCM lift truck stalls from overheating, the most probable source of the problem is a bad radiator cap. You should also be aware that if your radiator hoses are collapsing, that's a clear indication of a faulty radiator cap.
How to Tell When a TCM Forklift Radiator is Bad?
The overheating of a TCM forklift
A radiator for TCM forklift should be replaced when it can no longer perform its function effectively. Several signs will tell you when you may need a new TCM radiator.
The temperature gauge indicates temperatures higher than usual.
The coolant level is always low.
The TCM forklift constantly stalls for overheating.
Most of the TCM radiator fins are bent.
There are lighter or darker areas in different zones of the radiator core.
The coolant looks dirty and muddy.
Selection of the Right TCM Replacement Radiator For Your TCM Forklift
In the market, you will find a wide range of TCM forklift models, each one with particular requirements. To find the right radiator, you must make sure to consider the following aspects:
Which radiator type you will purchase. You can choose to buy an OEM or an aftermarket TCM radiator. With the OEM option, you know that the new radiator will fit perfectly and meet the original heat dissipation parameters for your lift truck model. However, the aftermarket option is more affordable and more flexible when it comes to coolant capacity and heat dissipation.
The dimensions of the new TCM radiator. TCM forklift radiators come in various sizes, so you'll ensure the one you choose is fixed with your TCM lift truck model. This is especially important if you are considering purchasing an aftermarket radiator.
The coolant capacity. The capacity of the radiator is how much fluid it can hold. You need to make sure that your new TCM radiator can handle the right amount of coolant needed to lower the engine temperature efficiently.
Purchase Your New TCM Radiator at Lift Parts Warehouse
Lift Parts Warehouse is one of the main leading online distributors of TCM lift truck spare parts currently active in the United States. In our online catalog, you will find an easy-to-use "pick and buy" system that will make your shopping experience more satisfying. And thanks to our great selection of radiators for TCM forklift models, we assure you, you will find the right radiator 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 TCM forklift radiators that we offer a one-year warranty on each in stock to prove it. If you change your mind after making your purchase, don't worry; you can return your order and receive a full refund. For more information about our return policies, we invite you to click here.
So why wait any longer? Give us a try and let our work speak for itself. Put in contact with our staff today and place your order. You won’t regret it.
Takeaways
Radiators are an important part of the cooling system on TCM forklift models powered by internal combustion engines. A TCM forklift radiator helps maintain engine temperature in a safe operating range by dissipating heat absorbed by the coolant. If a radiator fails, the engine will overheat. To avoid large repair costs due to overheating, you must replace the faulty radiator before problems escalate. When you need a new radiator for your TCM forklift, don't hesitate to contact the staff at Lift Parts Warehouse to help you find the best replacement radiator for your TCM forklift.
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