Coolant Systems – More Than Just a Jug of Red Stuff

By Sammuel MacMullin | Proven Mining Solutions Inc.

1) Main Blog Post

❄️ Coolant Systems – More Than Just a Jug of Red Stuff

Ask most operators about their coolant system, and you’ll get a shrug: “Yeah, it’s full.” But here’s the truth — coolant does a lot more than stop your engine from overheating.

In the heavy-duty world, we run red extended-life coolant, and for good reason: it’s formulated for bigger engines, extreme loads, and long service intervals. But like anything else, it only works if you look after it.

⚙️ Why Coolant Matters

Heat management. Keeps combustion temps under control so the engine runs efficiently.

Component protection. Prevents corrosion inside the block, liners, and radiator.

Lubrication. Protects water pump seals and moving parts.

Winter performance. Prevents freeze-ups when temperatures tank.

🔎 What to Check in a Coolant System

1. Coolant Level

Low coolant usually means there’s a leak somewhere. Don’t just top it up — find the source.

2. Coolant Condition

Red coolant is designed to last, but it still degrades. Look for discoloration, sludge, fuel contamination from leaking nozzles or nozzle rings, or oil mixing in. Any of these point to deeper issues.

3. Pressure Cap

A weak or worn radiator cap can throw off the whole system. It’s a $20 part that can cost hundreds of thousands in engine repairs if it fails and causes overheating.

4. Hoses & Clamps

Soft spots, swelling, or cracked hoses are a sign it’s time to replace. Loose clamps can turn into leaks real quick.

5. Radiator & Coolers

Check fins for debris, bent metal, or plugging. Airflow is as important as fluid flow.

6. Heaters

Cab heaters and DEF tank heaters rely on the coolant loop. If they’re weak, you might have an airlock or circulation issue.

📏 Regular Testing Pays Off

Coolant test strips are cheap, but ignoring your coolant chemistry is not. Testing confirms:

Proper freeze protection

Correct pH levels

Additive strength (corrosion inhibitors)

At Proven Mining, we also use refractometers to verify freezing point protection — a quick, accurate way to make sure your coolant will hold up when temperatures plummet.

❌ Common Mistakes

Mixing coolants. Topping red coolant with green or “whatever’s in the shop” ruins its chemistry. Stick with one type.

Ignoring test strips. Extended life doesn’t mean infinite life.

Overfilling. Expansion space is required — otherwise, the system pushes coolant out under pressure.

Running with a bad cap. Weak pressure = higher temps and faster boil-off.

Neglecting airflow. A plugged radiator acts like no radiator at all.

🧠 Pro Tips from the Field

Keep jugs sealed — contamination starts before it ever goes in the tank.

Always fill with premixed 50/50 (distilled water + coolant). Tap water adds minerals that clog systems.

If a machine is consistently losing coolant with “no visible leak,” check the oil. A liner leak might be hiding in plain sight.

🔧 Proven Mining Has You Covered

From coolant flushes to full system pressure tests, Proven Mining Solutions keeps your equipment running at the right temperature. Don’t wait until you’re overheating on a job site — make coolant checks part of your preventative maintenance.

📞 587-723-8777

🌐 provenmining.ca