Panther T14R - Operation and maintenance manual
ENGINE AND SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
129/178
CHANGING THE ENGINE COOLANT
Engine coolant
Refer to “TECHNICAL DATA” on page 114 for the rec-
ommended engine coolant fluid.
Do not use automotive grade coolant fluid, use only
coolant approved by the engine supplier.
It is recommended (but not mandatory) to collect cool-
ant samples and perform analysis to monitor its condi-
tion. The goal is to optimise the life of the coolant while
preventing potential problems as well as warranty
issues caused by deficient maintenance.
» Samples for Level 1 analysis will test the properties
of the coolant fluid. Perform Level 1 analysis every
250 hours.
» Samples for Level 2 analysis will test the chemical
evaluation of the coolant fluid and provide informa-
tion on the condition of the cooling system. Perform
Level 2 analysis yearly.
NOTE :
Refer to your authorized Caterpillar represent-
ative for more details on the sample analysis program.
Coolant fluid replacement procedure
NOTE : Vehicle must be on level ground whenever the
cooling system is serviced.
NOTE : Vehicle must be on level ground whenever the
cooling system is serviced.
Inspect the water pump and the water temperature
regulator after the cooling system has been drained.
This inspection is a good opportunity to replace the
water pump, the water temperature regulator, and the
hoses, if necessary.
Clean the cooling system and flush the cooling system
before the recommended maintenance interval if the
following conditions exist:
» The engine overheats frequently;
» Foaming is observed;
» The oil has entered the cooling system and the
coolant is contaminated.
NOTE : When the cooling system is cleaned, only
clean water is needed.
» Turn off engine and allow to cool down.
NOTICE
Using a coolant fluid that is not recommended
can cause premature wear and void the war-
ranty.
» Using a clean rag, slowly open the cap on the filler
neck of the engine coolant reservoir to release
pressure. Ensure no contaminant enters the reser-
voir.
Figure 197
1. Engine coolant radiator core
2. Coolant reservoir
3. Coolant level sight glass
4. Radiator cap
5. Radiator drain valve
» Gain access to the area of the drain valve. Install a
flexible tube on the valve outlet.
» Install a recipient to collect the existing coolant.
» Open the valve. Wait until the cooling system is
empty.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION : Dispose of
engine coolant according to prevailing legal
requirements.
» Flush the cooling system with clean water to
remove debris.
» Close the drain valve of the radiator.
» Fill the system with a mixture of clear water and a
cooling system cleaner (use a cleaner recom-
mended by the engine supplier in the recom-
WARNING
Burn hazard
Never remove the coolant reservoir cap when
the engine is hot. To avoid severe burns, do not
inspect the coolant system or attempt to add
coolant if the engine is hot.
NOTICE
Fill the cooling system no faster than 5
L
(1.3 US gal) per minute to avoid air locks.
0275230048
4
1
5
3
2