How-tos

Unlike engine oil or hydraulic fluid in mechanical equipment, brake fluid doesn’t consume or burn off. It works quietly in a sealed system, leading many owners to believe it lasts forever. But that’s wrong. With respect to heavy-duty equipment, the neglect of brake fluid will directly imperil the safety of the operator and the well-being of the machine. This compendium shall serve to explicate all matters pertaining to said brake fluid—its operational function, its mode of degradation, and, of paramount importance, the frequency with which it must be replaced to ensure the safety and reliability of your equipment.

If you’re running a Detroit Diesel S60 engine, you know it’s one of the most reliable powerhouses on the road. But even the toughest engines have their weak spots. We’ve seen thousands of S60 engines come through our doors at FridayParts, and we’re going to share the problems that keep showing up – and more importantly, how you can spot them before they leave you stranded.

Can’t find the source of your freon leak? This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for locating leaks using visual checks, soap tests, and UV dye. We also cover the most critical decision: when to repair a fitting versus when you must replace a component for a lasting fix.

Excessive engine temperature is one of the most obvious symptoms of a damaged radiator cap. The simplest and most direct way to immediately solve the problem of overheating in the engine might be to replace the radiator cap of your equipment. However, does a damaged radiator cap also cause other serious problems? How can one determine that the radiator cap is the actual cause of the problem? This guide will provide you with assistance.

Considering a Turbocharger Repair to save on costs? Before you decide, it’s critical to know when a repair is a smart investment versus when it’s just delaying a full replacement. This guide walks you through the root causes of turbo failure, helps you choose between a repair and a new unit, and explains the difference between a cartridge swap and a full overhaul. Learn how to make the right call to save money and maximize your equipment’s uptime.

Understanding the difference between air & gases in the cooling system is critical. One is a minor issue fixed by bleeding the system; the other is a sign of a major internal engine leak requiring immediate repair. This guide provides a clear comparison of symptoms and solutions to help you make the right diagnosis and avoid a catastrophic, costly mistake.

Have you ever heard a sharp, unusual noise coming from the engine compartment of your equipment? Many people are puzzled by this strange noise. But in truth this is caused by the drive belt inside the equipment. The drive belt is specially crafted for power transmission to the critical systems; its damage or aging is very likely to cause unexpected shutdowns of the equipment and costly repair fees, and these costs are usually pricier than the belt itself. This article will lead you to understand information related to the equipment drive belt, explain to you its working principle in the equipment to help you better understand this component, and replace it timely when necessary.

Heard horror stories about a radiator explosion? It’s actually a violent burst from extreme pressure. This guide breaks down the 5 root causes, from a failed cap to a blown head gasket, and provides a simple diagnostic chart. Learn how to prevent this failure and what to do if it happens to you.

If you’re learning how to use an excavator, are curious about its parts, or simply need to understand its structure to better maintain your equipment, then this article is perfect for you. FridayParts breaks down an excavator into its core components and explains their functions to help you better understand your excavator. This article will give you a clear understanding of the structure of an excavator, tailored for both beginners and seasoned operators.

A blown head gasket is more than a leak; it’s a critical failure that can lead to catastrophic engine damage and significant financial costs. This comprehensive guide walks you through the 7 key warning signs you can’t afford to ignore, provides a detailed breakdown of the typical head gasket replacement cost for heavy machinery, and explains the professional repair process. Read on to protect your investment and understand the true scope of this essential repair.

If you’re looking at heavy-duty diesel engines, you’ve definitely heard about the Caterpillar C15. This powerhouse has been moving America’s freight for decades, and there’s a good reason why mechanics and truckers still talk about it with respect. Whether you’re thinking about buying a truck with a C15 engine, need parts for yours, or just want to know what makes these engines tick, we’ve got you covered. At FridayParts, we’ve been supplying C15 parts for years, and we’ve heard every story, fixed every problem, and answered every question about these engines. So let’s dive into what makes the C15 special and what you really need to know about it.

Machine losing power but not coolant? It might be time to clean your clogged EGR cooler. Seeing white smoke or mysteriously losing coolant? You must replace your EGR cooler immediately to prevent permanent engine damage.