Solve Forklift Radiator Overheating
Feb 22 , 2025
When the radiator of an internal combustion forklift gets extremely hot, the forklift must be stopped, which affects its operation. In severe cases, it can even damage components. So, what are the causes of the high - temperature problem of the forklift radiator and how to solve it?
There are many reasons for high temperature: factors such as the temperature - control switch, pump, fan, rusty water pipes, and poor water return can all lead to this phenomenon. The engine temperature mainly depends on whether the thermostat works properly, whether the water pump can build up sufficient pressure, and whether the cooling fan can reach the standard rotation speed. Then, how to check if the forklift temperature is abnormal? The cooling system generally consists of components such as the cooling fan, radiator, and thermostat.
The thermostat can be checked on the vehicle, and the methods are as follows:
- Inspection after engine start - up: Open the radiator filler cap. If the cooling water in the radiator is calm, it indicates that the thermostat is working properly; otherwise, it means the thermostat is malfunctioning. This is because when the water temperature is below 70°C, the expansion cylinder of the thermostat is in a contracted state, and the main valve is closed. When the water temperature is above 80°C, the expansion cylinder expands, and the main valve gradually opens, and the circulating water in the radiator starts to flow. When the water temperature gauge indicates below 70°C, if there is water flow at the radiator inlet pipe and the water temperature is warm, it indicates that the main valve of the thermostat is not closed properly, causing the cooling water to have an early large - scale circulation.
- Inspection after the temperature rises: In the initial stage of engine operation, the temperature rises rapidly. When the water temperature gauge indicates 80°C, if the heating - up speed slows down, it indicates that the thermostat is working properly. Conversely, if the temperature has been rising rapidly, and when the internal pressure reaches a certain level, boiling water suddenly overflows, it indicates that the main valve is stuck and suddenly opens.
- Inspection when the water temperature gauge indicates 70°C - 80°C: Open the radiator cap and the radiator drain switch, and feel the water temperature by hand. If it is scalding hot, it means the thermostat is working properly. If the water temperature at the radiator filler is low, and there is no water flow or very little water flow at the inlet pipe of the upper water chamber of the radiator, it means the main valve of the thermostat cannot open.
- The water pump is the power for the continuous circulation of the cooling water in the cooling system. The factors affecting the water pump are the impeller and the belt. If the impeller is loose, the cooling water cannot circulate, resulting in damage to the water pump. If the belt is too large, it will cause the temperature to be too high; if it is too small, it will damage the water pump bearings and generator bearings.
- Detection of fan air volume: Place a thin piece of paper in front of the radiator. When the engine is running, if the paper can be blown away, it indicates that the air volume is sufficient. This is different from the front - mounted engine car fan that sucks air inward. The blades should not be installed reversely, and the fan guard should be complete and effective.
- Regarding the radiator, the forklift has a low chassis, and the radiator is located at the rear of the vehicle. Dust can easily accumulate on the surface of the radiator. If it is not cleaned in time, it will seriously affect the heat - dissipation effect. "Hard water" is strictly prohibited from being used as cooling water to prevent the formation of scale in the radiator, which may lead to insufficient cooling water addition.
When operating a forklift, one needs to be more observant, take preventive measures, and prevent more serious malfunctions.
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