Key Components and When to Replace Them

Your heavy-duty truck’s cooling system does more than just regulate engine temperature—it protects your investment, preserves fuel economy, and keeps your truck moving mile after mile. When any component in that system starts to fail, it can quickly lead to performance issues, costly downtime, or even serious engine damage.

At Road Choice, we’re committed to helping truck owners, drivers, and fleet managers stay ahead of problems with high-quality parts that meet the demands of long runs and heavy hauling. If you’re wondering when to replace your truck’s engine cooling components, here are the key parts to watch—and the signs they may be overdue for replacement.

RADIATORS: The Heart of Your Cooling System

Your radiator is central to keeping your engine at the right temperature. Over time, exposure to heat cycles, vibration, and the elements can weaken radiator tanks, crack seams, or clog internal passages. Whether the construction is All-Metal or Plastic Tank and Aluminum, it pays to keep an eye out for early signs of problems.

Watch for:

• Leaks or seepage around seams and fittings
• Visible corrosion or scaling
• Overheating, especially under load
• Cracked or swollen plastic tanks

Road Choice Radiators  deliver superior performance and reliability under the toughest conditions. Our product lineup includes solutions for highway, vocational, and vintage truck applications, designed to maximize productivity, reduce downtime, and extend vehicle life.

Here’s a quick summary of performance features for the radiators we offer:

All-Metal Radiators

• Brazed joints for strength and vibration resistance.
• Powder-coated tanks and frames for superior corrosion protection.
• Reinforced rails and corner supports for added durability.
• Ultra-Fused® welding reduces leaks, greatly extending radiator life.

Plastic Tank and Aluminum (PTA) Radiators

• Extra-thick tanks made from new, reinforced plastic.
• Reinforced connections handle vibration and hose clamp stress.
• Internal corner braces reduce flexing and vibration.
• Stainless-steel header tabs prevent gasket failures.
• Durable silicon-based gaskets minimize leaks.
• Includes hardware and install kits for easy replacement.

CHARGE AIR COOLERS: Hidden But Critical

A leaking or inefficient charge air cooler can significantly reduce engine power and fuel efficiency. It can also contribute to overheating.

Watch for:

• Loss of engine power
• Increased fuel consumption
• Audible air leaks during boost
• Check engine light or fault codes

Road Choice Charge Air Coolers  are built for durability and thermal performance. Each unit is 100% leak-tested and made with brazed aluminum to ensure long-lasting operation, even under extreme pressure and temperature changes.

COOLANT RESERVOIRS: Don’t Overlook the Expansion Tank

Your coolant reservoir (also known as the surge or expansion tank) plays a key role in managing pressure and fluid volume within the cooling system. If it's cracked or leaking, it can lead to overheating or loss of coolant.

Watch for:

• Visible cracks or discoloration
• Coolant pooling underneath the tank
• Inconsistent coolant levels or warning lights

Road Choice Coolant Reservoirs  are engineered to OEM standards and constructed with enhanced polymers that resist cracking and wear. They’re available for a wide range of truck makes and help reduce failure points seen in other aftermarket offerings.

COOLANT: The Lifeblood of the System

Coolant does more than prevent freezing and boiling—it also protects against corrosion and keeps heat transfer efficient. Using the wrong type or ignoring service intervals can shorten the life of every other component in the system.

Watch for:

• Murky, rusty, or oily coolant
• Frequent top-offs
• Unpleasant odor from under the hood

Road Choice Coolants  are formulated for heavy-duty trucks and offer excellent corrosion protection and metal compatibility. With a range of formulas to meet OEM specs, our coolants ensure optimal heat transfer and long service life.

Stay Ahead of the Heat

If you’re seeing any of the warning signs above, it may be time to replace one or more cooling components. And if you’re already replacing one part, it’s a great opportunity

to evaluate the rest of your system. Radiators, charge air coolers, coolant reservoirs, and coolants all work together to protect the engine and ensure that your trucks are performing at their best.

At Road Choice, we make it easy to find the right replacement parts, all backed by a minimum one-year warranty and designed to meet or exceed OEM standards.

Talk to your Road Choice sales expert about any cooling system issues you’ve detected or visit us online to learn more. We’re here to keep your fleet running cool, safe, and strong!

-------------------

Road Choice offers a broad selection of engine cooling solutions for heavy-duty trucks of all makes and models. For more information or to schedule a service appointment, call your nearest Road Choice retailer. You can also order parts online, anytime through PartsASIST™, for delivery directly to your doorstep or available will-call at parts pickup.