I overheated my XR4140hc while bush hogging. Should I worry about long term effects?

[alexsbuddy]

Pete, I don't think you would have done any harm if this was the first time. As for adding coolant, follow your owners manual. I would make sure to bring your coolant level back to normal before using again. Frequently check your temp level when using in tall brush or grass....the radiator screen gets plugged quickly due to the powerful draw of the fan.

 

[sdef]

I agree the best thing would have been to keep the engine running and circulating coolant while you cleaned out the air flow. I would keep an eye out for coolant use over time as overheating like this can cause a warped head, in some manner, along with stretched head bolts and/or a damaged head gasket from the same. Been there, done that on a V8 Jeep. May not be a serious engine issue and just something that needs to be kept up with with additional coolant added over time.

 

[Senderofan]

Hey,
I'm in southern Texas and it's hot. So my tractor overheated when I stopped working it today. It was fine, but when I turned it off, hot water and steam came out of the overflow tube. I did clean it off from the dust and seeds that were clogging the radiator. When it was working the fan was on, but as soon as I turn it off, the fan goes off and it clearly over heats.

How do I do a better job of cleaning the radiator?
What should I put in the radiator? Water or something else. Back in the UK I would have put antifreeze, but that's not an issue here.
If this is a continuing issue, should I not turn it off and leave it idling for a while before switching it off after 30 minutes?

thanks

Pete
Texas

Pete:

I've been involved with performance enhancements of turbo diesel engines in pick up trucks and SUV's since 2000. With any turbo diesel....it's probably a very good idea to go from working it hard to letting it idle for a couple of minutes before shut down....especially in the very hot months of the year. The turbo will retain most of the engine heat for a period of time. If shutting the engine down when "Hot" without continuing oil flow through the turbo bearings......you are at risk for the oil degrading ( burning ) and clogging the oil passage ( called Coking.) This will ultimately lead to premature turbo failure. You don't want to let the tractor idle for too long....especially when cold....as there is also an issue called "Cylinder Washing" where the fuel, when the engine is cool, washes the thin oil film that normally coats the cylinder walls. This leads to premature cylinder wall wear / scoring.

To provide you a specimen for proper care. I had to replace head gaskets on my early 2002 Chev 2500HD Duramax. With proper oil change intervals and cool down procedures......at 75,000 miles.....the mechanic ( GM Master ) said the cross hatching from the factory showed very minimal wear. Things to keep in mind for your investment I guess :thumbsup:

Wayne