Your machine is overheating! What do you do?
Just because we’re in the cooler seasons doesn’t mean machines are impervious to getting overheated. While environment temperatures do contribute to overheating at times, it’s the internal mechanisms malfunctioning that typically causes the engine to spike and overheat. If this happens to your telehandler or forklift, it’s crucial to take immediate action to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of the operator and everyone else onsite.
Here's what you should do if your machine overheats…
Stop operating!
As soon as you notice the machine overheating or if any warning lights indicate high temperature, stop operating it immediately. Continuing to use an overheating machine can lead to severe damage and may pose safety risks. By operating the machine you are putting yourself and others at unnecessary risk; moving the machine around the workspace can damage property and hurt others, and you risk igniting flammable or melting non-heat resistant materials.
Engines off…
Shut down the engine to prevent further heating. Allow the machine to cool down before attempting any inspections or repairs. Leaving the engine running could exacerbate the issue, heating the machine more, and can even cause smoke (which is particularly dangerous in enclosed environments such as warehouses). Turning the engine off is the first step toward your best chance of bringing the temperature down and will ensure everyone is safe.
Move to a safe location
If the machine is in an unsafe or obstructive position, move it to a safe location away from other equipment and people. Ensure that it is parked on level ground and not at risk of tipping or falling. While this is vital in all cases, with a heated machine there are additional risks: contact with skin or flammable, non-heat resistant materials causing serious damage to body and property.
Check coolant levels
Once the machine has cooled down sufficiently, check the coolant levels. The cooling system may be low on coolant, leading to overheating. If you find the coolant levels are low, do not add coolant while the engine is still hot, as this may cause burns or other damage. Wait for the engine to cool down completely before adding coolant.
Inspect the cooling system
Examine the cooling system for any visible signs of leaks, damage, or blockages. Check the radiator, hoses, and fan for any issues. If you are not familiar with the cooling system or do not feel confident in identifying problems, contact a qualified technician for assistance.
Clean the radiator and fins
Over time, dirt, debris, and dust can accumulate on the radiator and cooling fins, reducing the cooling efficiency. Clean these components carefully using compressed air or a soft brush to remove any obstructions.
Check fan, belt and water pump
Ensure that the cooling fan is functioning correctly. A malfunctioning fan can lead to inadequate cooling. Check the belts for wear and tension, and verify that the water pump is functioning correctly. Damaged belts or a faulty water pump can impact the cooling system's effectiveness.
Seek Professional Assistance
If you are unable to identify the cause of the overheating or if the problem persists after performing basic checks, it's essential to contact All Lift immediately. We have qualified and experienced technicians on hand to see to our machines, offering repairs or replacements where required. We will be able to diagnose and resolve the issue safely and effectively.
All Lift conduct meticulous and regular maintenance and inspections to help prevent overheating issues, ensuring our machines receive the necessary servicing and care to give you a seamless hire and purchase experience.