Quote:
Originally posted by R Leo
Diesel Power: A couple of questions.
1) Why do 'big rigs' often have 'shutters' on their radiators (doesn't the engine thermostat perform the thep control function)?
2) And, why do big rigs sometimes have 'curtains' covering (or partially covering) their radiator grilles?
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1. The cooling systems are designed with enough capacity to keep the engine cool while under a very heavy load - pulling a grade while at maximum weight capacity. The "shutters" that you see actually serve to close off airflow to the radiator when the engine cannot maintain operating temperature. These shutters are becoming more and more rare, espceially with the air-to-air aftercoolers for the intake air.
2. The "curtain" you see is a winter front, and serves the same purpose as the metal shutters you see in other trucks. The ones you see with the holes in them, are to allow for enough airflow to the aftercooler, to prevent a major loss of power.