Radiator Service
Cooling System Diagnostics, Leak Repair & Replacement, and Prevent Overheating
Monson Truck & Trailer Repair offers comprehensive radiator services for heavy-duty diesel trucks and tractor-trailers. From pressure testing and leak sealing to core replacement and full cooling system overhauls, our ASE-certified technicians ensure your engine runs at optimal temperature—preventing costly downtime and engine damage.
Keep Your Engine Running Cool
Keep Your Engine Running Cool
A properly functioning radiator and cooling system are critical to preventing engine overheating, maintaining oil viscosity, and protecting internal components (head gaskets, turbochargers, and cylinder heads). Common radiator issues include:
- Leaks & Cracks: Corroded seams, damaged fins, or impact damage can lead to coolant loss.
- Clogged Core & Tubes: Mineral deposits, sludge, and debris reduce coolant flow and heat dissipation.
- Failed Pressure Cap: A weak cap can’t maintain proper system pressure, causing boil-over.
- Worn Hoses & Clamps: Brittle or collapsed hoses restrict flow; loose clamps lead to leaks.
Monson’s Radiator Service addresses these problems through precise diagnostics, expert repairs, and full-system maintenance—keeping your truck cool under the toughest loads.
How Our Radiator Service Works
How Our Radiator Service Works
Initial Assessment & Leak Detection
- Drive-in or on-site drop-off. Technician inspects radiator, hoses, clamps, and overflow tank.
- Perform a pressure test at OEM-specified PSI (often 16–18 psi) to locate leaks in the entire cooling circuit.
Diagnostic Report & Quote
- Provide a written report detailing findings: leak locations, core condition, pump health, and hose integrity.
- Present a clear, itemized quote for necessary repairs or replacement options (repair vs. replace vs. recondition).
Repair or Replacement Execution
- Minor Leaks: Apply cold-plug sealant or perform brazing on seams.
- Core Service: Remove radiator for ultrasonic cleaning or core swap; install new gaskets/cores as needed.
- Component Service: Replace water pump, thermostat, hoses, clamps, fan blades, or shroud per inspection results.
System Reassembly & Fill
- Reinstall radiator and related components; torque all fasteners to OEM specs.
- Connect hoses, clamps, and bleed lines.
Coolant Flush & Fill
- Connect flush machine (forward/backward flow) to remove old fluid, corrosion inhibitors, and scale.
- Refill with fresh coolant (50/50 mix or extended-life formula).
- Bleed system to remove air pockets—run engine to operating temperature, cycle heater, and top off.
Final Testing & Road-Test
- Heat the engine to operating range (180°F–200°F). Verify thermostat operation and cooling fan engagement.
- Monitor coolant temperature gauge for stable reading; check for leaks under pressure.
- Road-test under load/hot idle conditions to confirm consistent cooling performance.
Key Benefits of Professional Radiator Service
Key Benefits of Professional Radiator Service
Prevent Costly Overheating
Early detection and repair of leaks or blockages stop engine overheating, head gasket failure, and cracked heads.
Extend Radiator & Engine Life
Flushing out debris and using proper coolant formulations prevents corrosion and maintains OEM coolant passages.
Improve Fuel Economy
A fully functional cooling system keeps engine viscosity optimal—reducing friction and improving efficiency by up to 1–2%.
Reduce Unscheduled Downtime
Proactive cooling system maintenance minimizes roadside breakdowns and emergency towing costs.
Enhance Safety & Reliability
Stable engine temperatures protect oil, turbocharger bearings, and other drivetrain components—preventing catastrophic failures.
Why Choose Monson for Radiator Service
Why Choose Monson for Radiator Service
ASE-Certified Technicians
Our team is trained in heavy-duty cooling systems, pressure testing, and precision leak repair.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
- Infrared thermal imaging to identify hot/cold spots in the core.
- Ultrasonic cleaning tanks for thorough core reconditioning.
- Computerized pressure testing rigs that isolate leaks down to pinhole size.
OEM & Heavy-Duty Parts
We source radiators, cores, water pumps, thermostats, hoses, and clamps from top manufacturers—ensuring durability and fitment.
Transparent, Itemized Pricing
- Cooling System Inspection & Pressure Test: $150 (waived with any subsequent repair).
- Radiator Leak Repair: Starting at $275 (depending on leak location and material).
- Radiator Core Replacement: $950–$1,350 (based on make/model; includes core, gaskets, labor).
- Full Cooling System Overhaul: $1,200–$1,800 (includes pump, thermostat, hoses, clamps, coolant flush).
- Coolant Flush & Fill Only: $275 (up to 20 quarts of OEM-approved coolant).
Fast Turnaround & Mobile Service
- Most radiator repairs completed same‐day or next business day.
- Mobile cooling system flush and minor leak repair available within a 50-mile radius.
Our Radiator Service Offerings
Cooling System Inspection & Pressure Test
- Visual & Digital Inspection
- Check radiator fins for bent or collapsed sections; inspect tanks and seams for corrosion.
- Use infrared thermometers to scan for hot/cold spots indicating core blockages.
- Pressure Test
- Pressurize the system to OEM-specified PSI to reveal hidden leaks in the radiator, hoses, heater core, or water pump.
Fan & Shroud Service
- Fan Blade Inspection & Replacement
- Check for cracks, warping, or missing blades on mechanical and electric fans.
- Replace damaged fan blades or upgrade to high-flow fan assemblies.
- Fan Clutch Testing
- Verify proper engagement temperature and slip characteristics; replace failing clutch to prevent overheating or overcooling.
- Shroud Realignment & Mounting
- Ensure shroud sits flush to the radiator core for maximum airflow; repair or replace broken shroud segments.
Core Replacement & Reconditioning
- Core Removal & Inspection
- Remove radiator core; disassemble end tanks to access internal tubes and fins.
- Ultrasonic cleaning to remove scale, sludge, and mineral buildup.
- Core Replacement Options
- Install a direct-fit OEM radiator core.
- Upgrade to heavy-duty, high-efficiency cores with thicker tubes and reinforced end tanks.
- Reassembly & Pressure Verification
- Reinstall tanks with new gaskets or O-rings; perform a second pressure test to confirm no leaks.
Radiator Leak Repair & Seam Sealing
- Cold-Plugging & Leak Sealing
- Utilize aluminum-based sealants or epoxy plugs for minor pinhole leaks and small cracks (when structurally sound).
- Soldering & Braze Repairs
- For steel or brass radiators, our technicians perform precision brazing to reseal cracked seams and repair damaged tanks.
Complete Cooling System Overhaul
- Water Pump Inspection & Replacement
- Check impeller condition, shaft seal integrity, and bearing play; replace pump if worn or leaking.
- Thermostat & Housing Service
- Test thermostat opening temperature; install OEM or high-flow aftermarket units.
- Replace corroded or cracked thermostat housings.
- Hose & Clamp Replacement
- Remove and replace all radiator hoses, heater hoses, and bypass hoses; use premium silicone hoses for extended life.
- Install new worm-drive or T-bolt clamps to ensure leak-free connections.
- Coolant Flush & Fill
- Utilize a powered flush machine to remove old coolant, rust inhibitors, and scale.
- Refill with OEM-approved or extended-life coolant mixed to the correct ratio; bleed system to purge air pockets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I flush my cooling system?
Every 100,000 miles or every 24 months under normal highway conditions. Severe duty (stop-and-go, heavy hauling) may require a flush every 50,000 miles.
What are the signs of a failing radiator?
Look for coolant puddles under the truck, rising engine temperature, a soft or swollen radiator hose, steam from the hood, or a consistently low coolant level/pressure in the overflow tank.
Can you fix a radiator with a large crack in the plastic tank?
Plastic tank repair depends on crack location. Small cracks near the seam can sometimes be brazed or epoxy-welded; otherwise, full core or tank replacement is recommended for reliability.
What type of coolant do you recommend?
We use OEM-approved, extended-life ethylene glycol coolant formulated with corrosion inhibitors suited for heavy-duty diesel engines. We do not recommend off-brand additives or water-only mixes.
How long does a radiator replacement take?
Typically 4–6 hours, including removal, core installation, hose/clamp replacement, coolant flush, and final testing.
Prevent Overheating—Protect Your Engine Today
Don’t risk costly engine damage from a neglected cooling system. Monson’s Radiator Service experts are ready to diagnose, repair, or replace—keeping your truck cool, efficient, and on schedule.