PIN 5304023 - Caterpillar

Illustration 1 g00286266The boiling point of the coolant also depends on the type of coolant and the concentration of glycol. A greater concentration of glycol has a higher boiling temperature. However, glycol transfers heat less effectively than water. Because of the boiling point and the efficiency of heat transfer, the concentration of glycol is important.Three basic problems can be associated with the cooling system:
Overheating
Coolant loss
OvercoolingIf the cooling system is not properly maintained, solids such as scale and deposits reduce the ability of the cooling system to transfer heat. The engine operating temperature will increase.Coolant can be lost by leaks. Overheated coolant can be lost through the cooling system's pressure relief valve. Lower coolant levels contribute to additional overheating. Overheating can result in conditions such as cracking of the cylinder head and piston seizure.A cracked cylinder head or cylinder liner will force exhaust gas into the cooling system. The additional pressure causes coolant loss, cavitation of the water pump, less circulation of coolant, and further overheating.Overcooling is the result of coolant that bypasses the water temperature regulators and flows directly to the radiator or to the heat exchanger. Low load operation in low ambient temperatures can cause overcooling. Overcooling is caused by water temperature regulators that remain open. Overcooling reduces the efficiency of operation. Overcooling enables more rapid contamination of the engine oil. This results in the formation of sludge in the crankcase and carbon deposits on the valves.Cycles of rapid heating and cooling can result in cracked cylinder heads, gasket failure, accelerated wear, and excessive fuel consumption.If a problem with the cooling system is suspected, perform a visual inspection before you perform any tests on the system.